Page 1 of 6
Suggested ad (MyPeanut)
Slideshow: How to introduce peanuts to your baby (and why it’s important)
In an age where peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches are a forbidden lunchroom food, many parents are understandably anxious about peanut allergies. But experts agree that introducing your baby early is a key part of reducing risk. Here’s how you can do it safely.
Page 2 of 6
Know when the time is right
At around four to six months, once your baby has begun eating solid foods, you’re ready to add peanuts to their growing menu. However, if your baby is considered high risk (meaning s/he has severe eczema or is allergic to eggs), your doctor may recommend an evaluation first. When you’ve determined the time is right, pick a day when your baby is feeling well and plan to give this first feeding at home.
Page 3 of 6
Be sure your peanuts are baby-friendly
Before you reach for a jar of peanut butter and a spoon, keep in mind that the thick consistency of nut butter can present a choking hazard. Instead, prepare a portion of a baby-safe recipe. For added ease, MyPeanut makes a nutritious, organic baby food from fruits, veggies and whole-ground nuts. It even comes in a convenient on-the-go pouch—no grinding, mixing, or measuring required.
Page 4 of 6
Start small and wait
Give your baby a small taste then wait for ten minutes, watching for any signs of an allergic reaction. Signs can include swelling or a rash on your baby’s face or body, itching, vomiting, coughing, changes in skin color, wheezing, or trouble breathing. If you see any of these signs or have any concerns at all, seek immediate medical attention.
Page 5 of 6
If all looks clear, continue on!
If your baby hasn’t shown any signs of an allergic reaction, you’re free to continue feeding at your regular pace. Just keep a close eye on your little one for at least the next two hours to be sure. Pediatricians recommend that you regularly include peanuts in your baby’s diet for the first five years of life. As a great source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, it’s one addition you can feel good about. Keeping a wholesome, baby food like MyPeanut on hand makes following this guideline a breeze.
Page 6 of 6
The power of being prepared
Introducing peanut-containing food to your baby for the first time can feel a bit scary, but it’s important to remember that most infants won’t have any adverse reaction at all. Plus, finding out while you’re prepared at home can help avoid any surprises later in life.
Studies show that in order to reduce your baby’s risk of developing peanut allergies, they need to eat them early and often. MyPeanut is organic baby food made with nutritious, whole ingredients like real fruits, veggies & nuts, offering parents both convenience and peace of mind. Learn more about peanut allergy prevention and safe feeding guidelines by tapping below.
This ad is brought to you by MyPeanut
Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25705822
- https://www.niaid.nih.gov/sites/default/files/peanut-allergy-prevention-guidelines-clinician-summary.pdf
