As your baby starts trying new foods, you may have questions about how and when to introduce potential allergens. "Common food allergy triggers include eggs, milk, fish, shellfish, and nuts," says Niharika Marpu, MD, Allergy and Asthma. "It's completely normal to have concerns about an allergy or reaction, but current research shows that early introduction may actually help lower the risk of allergic reactions later in life."
When can allergens be introduced to your baby's diet?
Most experts recommend introducing allergens when your baby is ready for solids, usually around four to six months of age. At this stage, your baby's diet can begin to expand beyond breast milk or formula to include a variety of foods that support nutrition.
Start with small amounts of one food at a time, such as egg or milk, and wait before introducing another. This helps you watch for any symptoms of an allergy, such as a rash, hives, breakout, or even wheezing. Always talk with your doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC) if you have concerns, especially if your child has a family history or history of allergies.
When to introduce egg, peanut butter & other common food allergens to a baby
Why do physicians recommend starting allergen introduction early?
In the past, parents were told to delay giving allergens. Today, research shows the opposite. Early exposure to foods like nuts, fish, and shellfish may actually lower the risk of developing allergy and asthma conditions.
Many studies, including the groundbreaking LEAP trial, showed that early, consistent exposure helps the immune system tolerate these foods. The LEAP study demonstrated how the early introduction of peanuts to at-risk babies could reduce the risk of developing peanut allergy by as much as 81%. Since then, these results have been applied to other food allergens.
"What we have learned is that when these foods are introduced early and safely, your child's immune system can learn to tolerate them," says Dr. Marpu. "Further, it has been shown that waiting too long may actually increase the chance of an allergy forming." Dr. Marpu adds, "Once introduced, it is important to consistently include these foods in your baby's diet to help maintain tolerance over time."
Is your baby at risk of developing food allergies?
Some babies have a higher risk of developing a food allergy. Indicators include:
- Moderate to severe eczema: The strongest predictor, as it allows allergens to sensitize the immune system through the skin.
- Family history: Immediate family members (parents/siblings) with food allergies, eczema, asthma, or hay fever.
- Environmental/biological factors: Use of antibiotics in the first year of life.
In these cases, your doctor or APC may recommend a specific plan for introducing allergens safely.
The good news is that most babies tolerate new foods well. With guidance from your doctor or APC and a careful approach, introducing allergens can be a safe and important step in supporting your baby's nutrition and long-term health.
About ARC Allergy and Asthma
ARC Allergy and Asthma specialists are doctors and APCs specially trained in diagnosing, treating, and managing allergy and asthma disorders. ARC Allergy and Asthma doctors and APCs can diagnose asthma and your environmental, food, or drug allergies, then develop a personalized treatment plan that may include allergy testing, medication, or allergy drops and shots.
Time to plan for back to school!
Now is the time to schedule a visit with your ARC Allergy and Asthma doctor or APC to get your child's Food Allergy Action Plan and/or Asthma Action Plan forms filled out for the upcoming school year.
Call today to schedule
Dr. Marpu sees patients of all ages at ARC Four Points in Austin, ARC Hutto, and ARC Round Rock. She has a Fellowship in Allergy & Immunology from Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO.
To make an appointment with Dr. Marpu, call ARC-INFO (512-272-4636).