Carina Venter and Rosan Meyer
Weaning: Points to take into account when introducing other allergens
This is a tricky topic. There are currently no specific guidelines on the introduction of allergens other than peanut. We base the following information on our own clinical experience; taking into account the NIAID guidelines. In order to explain introduction of the other allergens, let us revisit the groups identified by the NIAID guidelines:
Group 1: Infants with severe eczema, egg allergy or both.
- Follow the NIAID guidelines regarding peanut introduction between 4-6 months and continue to give 2 g of peanut protein, 3 times per week.
- We suggest you consult with your physician before the introduction of other allergens.
- For ways to introduce the other allergens see our suggestions at the end of the post.
Group 2: Infants with mild to moderate eczema.
- Follow the NIAID guidelines regarding peanuts introduction around 6 months of age
- Continue to give peanuts regularly; your physician may suggest that you follow the guidance of 2 g of peanut protein, 3 times per week.
- For ways to introduce the other allergens see our suggestions at the end of the post.
Group 3: Infants with no eczema or food allergies
- Start weaning your baby when developmentally ready
- Introduce peanuts according to the food that your family likes and regularly eats
- Continue with regular peanut intake, your physician may suggest that you follow the guidance of 2 g of peanut protein, 3 times per week
- For ways to introduce the other allergens see our suggestions at the end of the post.
WE NEED TO EMPHASISE:
If your baby or child has any other type of food allergy other than peanut and egg, we suggest you consult your doctor before weaning onto other allergens/foods.
Further reading: ASCIA guidelines for infant feeding and allergy prevention and EAACI food allergy and anaphylaxis guidelines: Primary prevention of food allergy
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