Dear mommies, watch out! Children can be allergic to these 5 foods

Kids can be sensitive to certain foods. Here are 5 food allergies in children and their symptoms which you need to know.
food allergies in children
Keep a check on your kid’s diet. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Aayushi Gupta Updated: 22 Jul 2022, 12:20 pm IST
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Mothers are constantly concerned about the diet and eating habits of their children. Every parent wants to give their child a good diet and enough nutrition. However, some foods may cause allergies in children. In fact, some food allergies in children can be severe and have a detrimental effect on their health. Although there isn’t a clear reason why allergies occur or why the immune system reacts strangely to foods that are actually safe, you should be cautious and keep those foods away from your children. And that is feasible if you are aware of their symptoms.

Health Shots got in touch with Dr Vrushali Bichkar, Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospital, Lullanagar, Pune, to find out the foods which can cause allergies in kids and what their symptoms are.

Here are some common foods allergies in children:

1. Milk

All mothers blindly believe that giving their babies milk will be beneficial to their child’s health. However, milk is one of the most common types of food allergies in children. Some kids overcome their milk allergies, but others experience lactose intolerance or food sensitivity throughout their entire lives. If your child has a milk allergy, milk or other dairy products may cause him or her to feel bloated and gassy. Always visit your doctor if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction since they might be fatal.

food allergies in children
Kids need proper nourishment but milk is not the only option. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

2. Nuts

Nuts, including almonds, cashews, pistachios, hazelnuts, and walnuts may cause allergies in some kids. When you give your baby nuts for the first time, pay close attention to how the body responds. If your kid is healthy, there is no need to worry. If your child complains of any sort of issue, stop giving him nuts and seek medical attention. Some signs of nut allergy include red bumps (hives), a runny nose, cramping, nausea, or vomiting.

3. Eggs

Dear moms, you will be surprised to learn that some kids can have egg allergies. Yes, that’s true. You should protect your kid from eating the entire egg because egg yolk is sometimes contaminated with egg white which also causes harm. Because of this, according to Dr Bichkar, “Foods that have even traces of eggs in the ingredients also need to be avoided by such children.” However, if your child is allergic to eggs, this indicates that they are actually allergic to the protein in them. Eggs are not the only source of protein. Exceptional substitute sources of comparable protein, minerals, and vitamins include meat, fish, dairy products, grains, and legumes.

food allergies in children
Eggs can be harmful if you are allergic to them. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

4. Wheat

Children can also develop wheat allergies, but the symptoms of this allergic reaction, which include swelling, itching, and throat or tongue discomfort, are minimal and are easy to identify. Hives, itchy rashes, skin edema, and nasal congestion may also appear in severe cases.

5. Peanuts

You may suddenly develop a peanut allergy. An allergy to peanuts is one of the most frequent triggers of severe allergic reactions and can appear at any time. And in some cases, it poses a threat to life. According to Dr Bichkar, “Children who are allergic to peanuts may sometimes experience adverse reactions after eating them.” Consult your doctor right away, even if the symptoms are minor. Some of its symptoms include itchiness, runny nose, shortness of breath, stomach problems, skin responses, and throat tightness.

food allergies in children
Even a small amount of peanuts may trigger a reaction, so avoid it. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Here are some common signs and symptoms of food allergies in children:

1. Skin rashes or hives (atopic dermatitis or eczema): A majority of children will exhibit these symptoms in case they have consumed something that is allergic.
2. Difficulty in breathing: This is also a common symptom of an allergy.
3. Abdominal distress: Upset stomach pain can immediately occur if you eat foods that can lead to allergies.
4. Sneezing, coughing, a runny nose, or itchy eyes: These red flags are seen in children. It will be imperative for the parents to seek timely attention once they notice the symptoms.

food allergies in children
Be mindful of what you’re feeding your kid. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

5. Vomiting and diarrhoea: These are other worrisome symptoms of a food allergy.

6. Itching in the mouth: Itching in the mouth can also be seen after you eat something that you are allergic to.

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About the Author

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More

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