Your Danger-Free Guide to Introducing Solids

Introducing Baby to solid foods can seem daunting given the unknowns and lurking dangers, such as food allergies, intolerances, and choking hazards. The great news is that the possibilities far outweigh the limitations when it comes to exploring food with your baby. Here are some important tips to keep in mind as you start down the eating solids path.

By: Tara Mataraza Desmond

Alexandra Rowley

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Tip #1: Introduce Allergens Carefully

Eight foods are responsible for 90 percent of food allergies: milk, wheat, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, seafood, and fish. Berries, citrus, seeds, and corn can also be problematic. While you might feel inclined to avoid these foods altogether, Rachelle Lessen, a registered dietitian and clinical nutritionist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, recommends introducing them under careful supervision as early as 6 months, when the immune system is developed. Watch for adverse reactions and cross foods off the "danger" list as you tackle them. Keep detailed notes about what your baby is eating so you can discuss problems with a doctor.

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Comments (1)

desireedewdrop wrote:

I keep trying to view this article and another on feeding and the page is being HIJACKED by a Delsyn (?) commercial! WTF??? I can't get back to the article and the page gets closed by my computer b/c it thinks it is malicious. Why write articles if they can't be read???

12/8/2010 09:19:22 PM Report Abuse