Peanut Butter

[hayleylea]

Hi there

I know that alot of kids have a reaction to peanut butter but i was wondering how i introuduce my nearly 12 month old to it. Do i just try him out on a little bit. What do you watch out for if they have a reaction?

Thanks in advance. Hayley

[the pero clinic]

Dear Hayleylea,

It is advisable that high allergy risk foods such as honey, nuts and whole eggs are not introduced to bubs' diets before 12 months of age. If there is a family history of nut allergy, it may be recommended that nuts are not given until as late as 3 or wis4.

If there is a family history of nut (or other food) allergy, it would be best to discuss this with your GP before trying peanut butter or similar with your son.

Otherwise, as with trying any new foods, it is best to do it in small amounts and with one new food at a time. To monitor for any reactions, keep all other meals to familiar and safe foods.

Reactions can vary from small intolerances to allergies, and can present in the form of skin changes or rashes, vomiting, diarrhoea, general feelings of illness, or in severe cases, difficulty breathing.

Severe cases of food allergy are not to be taken lightly, and we all need to support families, child care centres, preschools and schools in creating safe environments for affected children.

the pero clinic