Food allergies are one of the apprehensions of parents for their kids. They are not only worried but can also make feeding a challenge. It can also be undiagnosed for quite some time making you puzzled about what may be leading to the symptoms your child is experiencing. As a parent, you surely want to prevent this condition to happen to your child as much as possible. So, if you are looking for foods that are least allergenic for kids then do not miss out on this post. We’re going to explore everything you need to know about food allergies including the least allergenic foods for kids. Read more below!
First Things First – Know the Signs
Commonly, kids are picky eaters most especially for healthy foods like vegetables and fruits. However, for some kids, pickiness has nothing to do with their behavior of refusing to eat certain foods, and the reason behind that is a food allergy. As stated by Food Allergy Research Foundation, one out of thirteen kids is allergic to at least one food and an approximate of forty percent of those kids have experienced worst reactions leading to a threat in their lives.
Most parents have no idea if their kids have developed any food allergy until they consume those specific foods for the first time and have reactions. This is why it is very important for parents, as well as babysitters, teachers, and everybody else who spends time with the kid to know the signs of food allergy for them to be alert.
What are the most allergenic foods for kids?
When kids have a food allergy, overreaction on their immune system occurred. It is where antibodies are being produced to the food making it look like a virus or other threatening foreign invader. This immune system reaction is what triggers allergic symptoms.
The most allergenic foods for kids are the following:
- Eggs
- Soy
- Peanuts and other tree nuts which are almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and cashews
- Cow’s milk
- Wheat
- Fish and shellfish
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What are food allergy symptoms?
Food allergy commonly affects your kid’s breathing, skin, heart, and intestinal tract. A kid having a food allergy will experience the symptoms below for at least a few minutes to an hour after consuming the food.
- Cough
- Itchy feeling around the mouth and ears
- Runny nose or congestion
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Itchy red bumps on the skin or hives
- Itchy red rash or eczema
- Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath
- Stomach pain
- Sneezing
- Swelling of the tongue, lips, or face
- Unusual taste in the mouth
- Wheezing
- Vomiting
What you should do if your kid has a food allergy?
If your kid has a food allergy, don’t hesitate to see a pediatrician or an allergist. The doctor can determine what food is causing the trouble and help you come up with a treatment plan. Your kid may need to take some medicines such as antihistamines to treat the symptoms.
When to seek emergency help?
It is a fact that some kids might have a severe allergic reaction. The term is commonly called anaphylaxis. If your kid has difficulty breathing or swallowing after consuming something, don’t think twice to dial 911 immediately for medical help. Signs of anaphylaxis are the following:
- Confusion
- Chest pain
- Wheezing and shortness of breath
- Unconsciousness and fainting
- Swelling of the tongue, throat, and lips
- Difficulty swallowing
- Weak pulse
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Moreover, if your kid has severe food allergies, it is recommended to have an epinephrine auto-injector with them at all times to less worry in case they have a sudden allergic reaction. The kids themselves, parents, and all the people who care for them should have proper knowledge of using the injector.
What are the least allergenic foods for kids?
Now that you already know the important things you should not miss about food allergy, take a look at some of the least allergenic foods for kids. These are:
Apples
The common first food for kids is homemade applesauce. It is packed with Vitamin C with its natural sweetness so kids love it. You can opt to try different variants of apples to make new flavors. It can also be a great ingredient in mixing with other fruits such as mangoes or experiment with it for cooking other sumptuous dishes.
Avocados
Avocados are another least allergenic food for your kid. They are filled with monounsaturated healthy fats. They are rich in fiber and magnesium as well. Kids enjoy its mild taste.
Peaches
Another amazing fruit we have on the list for the least allergenic foods for kids is peaches. They are packed with Vitamin E and K, potassium, and folate. They are also very sweet and can be pureed easily.
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Carrots
This vegetable is often a go-to for parents. Having a sweet and mild taste, kids enjoy it. It is rich in fiber, Vitamin K, beta-carotene, and potassium. You can have it steamed and served it with chicken, beef, or turkey (whichever you desire) and your kid will surely devour it!
Broccoli
Broccoli is also one of the least allergenic foods for kids. It is rich in Vitamin K and C, fiber, and folic acid. You can make a delicious dish with pureed broccoli added with chicken broth.
Squash
A delicious veggie to give to your kid which is packed with Vitamin B6 and fiber. Just have it pureed, and then yum!
Sweet potatoes
It is one of the least allergenic foods for kids as well and if your kid loves squash, then he will surely love this too! Sweet potatoes are filled with selenium, calcium, and Vitamin B making it a great addition to your kid’s diet.
Proteins
If you are looking for protein-rich foods that are considered to be least allergenic, then chicken, lamb, and turkey should be your option. These are great alternatives for your kid’s diet, just served it with vegetables and some carbohydrates for a balanced meal.
Rice and oats
Rice and oats are also one of the least allergenic foods for kids. They are fortified with folic acid and iron and are great additions for the whole and natural state of your kid. For an added iron boost, rolled oats combined with banana is a great breakfast option. Also, rice served with turkey or chicken creates a tasty well-balanced meal for your kid.
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- Do Growth Hormones for Kids have Side Effects
- How to Get Children to Take Medicine Without a Fight?
