Wednesday, October 17, 2007

To My Caretakers

Dear caretakers, not knowing how often you check your emails, I've decided to spread the word here! Please read this list of forbidden baby foods! Thanks!

Common Foods That Should Wait Until Baby Is A Certain Age

Honey (not an allergen but may cause botulism in infants under 1yr old) - After 1 year

Peanut Butter - After 1 or 2 years

(Tree) Nuts(also may pose a choking hazard) - After 1 or 2 years

Citrus or Acidic Fruits Just because a fruit, like tomato, is not in the citrus family does not mean that it is not acidic!Not an allergen but may cause rash & digestive upset due to acidity. Using a dash of lemon or pineapple juice in a whole fruit puree is NOT the same as giving a baby pureed or sliced oranges, pineapple et al. - After 1 year

Strawberries - After 1 year

Corn (possible allergen and not very nutrient rich) - After 1 year

Egg Whites(many pediatricians will say it is fine for an older infant to have baked goods that include eggs) - After 1 year

Whole Milk Lactose and milk proteins may cause allergic reactions and may also cause tummy troubles as they are hard to digest - yoghurt and cheese are exceptions - see below. Milk also hinders proper absorption of iron; iron is crucial during the 1st yr.! - After 1 year

Wheat Many suggest that for the infant who has had no issues with gluten in Oats and/or Barley, and who has no history of wheat allergy or gluten intolerance, that offering wheat products (such as wheat toast) is fine around 8+ months - After 9-10 months or 1 year

Grapes(not a high allergen but may pose a choking hazard - use extreme caution if offering your older infant or toddler grapes) - After 10 months or 1 year

Shellfish(may be a high allergen) - After 1 or 2 years

Chocolate - After 1 year - if at all