Allergies and dairy

[sueb31]

My little boy is 9 months old and is doing well on solids. He has been having some yoghurt, cheese and a bit of cow's milk in food for the past month. But I have been reading that if there is afamily history of allergies he shoudl not have dairy till 12 months. There is a family history of hayfever, asthma and minor eczema on one side (mine). Does this mean I should stop the dairy - will that help if he's already had it?

Sue

Edited to add: He is breastfed, on 4 feeds a day at present.

[the pero clinic]

Dear Sueb31,

I’m afraid I’m not an expert on allergies – so it would be worth following this up with your doctor if you are concerned.

My understanding on the issue is that, yes, if there is a family history of food related allergies, it is best to be cautious about the introduction of these foods and to wait until 12 months to introduce them. I am not sure, however, to what extent this relates to non-food allergies such as hayfever and eczema.

Breastfeeding bubs who have significant allergies or intolerances to particular foods can experience reactions if their mothers eat the foods. Have you noticed any rashes or suspected any food intolerances yet from either food you have eaten, or your son has had himself?

It is a good sign if your bub has not had any reaction to the dairy he’s had so far. If you have reason to suspect any kind of intolerance, or there is a family history of dairy specific allergies, you may consider limiting his intake of dairy products.

Otherwise, it is probably safe to continue to give your son some dairy foods in his diet.

the pero clinic