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According to statistics, 1 in every 12 newborns is born with a food allergy, and the number of children with food allergies is steadily increasing.
So, how do food allergies manifest in children, and how can moms identify if their child is experiencing an allergy? Learn how to make the best food choices for your child.
1. What is a Food Allergy?
Allergies to milk and eggs are the most common types and tend to decrease as children grow. The prevalence of other allergens varies depending on geographical locations. For example, in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, peanut allergies are common, while in Southeast Asia and Southern Europe, allergies to fish and seafood are more prevalent.
The mechanism behind food allergies involves the body's immune system reacting to certain components in food, triggering the release of histamine. Histamine is a major culprit in causing classic allergic symptoms such as rashes and swelling. In severe cases, food allergies can lead to anaphylactic shock, posing a life-threatening risk.
Food allergies are the most common among all types of allergies, affecting over 8% of children aged 3 and below. If there is a family history of allergies, the likelihood of a child being allergic is significantly higher. Children with conditions like asthma, eczema, or allergic rhinitis are more prone to food allergies than those without such health issues.
2. Food Allergies: When to be Concerned?
According to statistics, infants and toddlers commonly suffer from allergies to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, sesame seeds, and hazelnuts. Approximately 1.6%–7% of infants are allergic to milk, around 2% of children under 3 are allergic to eggs, and just over 2% are allergic to peanuts.
Cases of food allergies in children are easily noticeable. Immediate reactions after consuming allergenic foods include visible symptoms that mothers can easily identify.
Signs to Help Mothers Recognize Child Allergies:
- Allergic reactions are often marked by hives or a red rash around the mouth, nose, and eyes, gradually spreading to other parts of the child's body.
- Mild swelling of the lips, eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes.
- Itching in the mouth and throat.
- Nausea, diarrhea.
Moms, take note: If your baby experiences severe allergies, you may observe symptoms like wheezing, difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat and tongue, and a sudden drop in blood pressure. These are signs of an anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening if not promptly addressed.
3. What Moms Should Do When Baby Has Allergies
When your child has a food allergy, it's crucial to consult a doctor promptly for a thorough examination. Doctors will guide mothers on choosing foods and eliminating allergens from the child's daily meals. Proper food choices ensure that the child receives essential nutrients for healthy development.
If you are breastfeeding but your baby is allergic to milk, doctors will advise on adjusting your diet to better suit your baby. For formula-fed babies, consider switching to a hypoallergenic formula.
Moms should never alter a child's nutritional intake without expert guidance.
