many pediatricians still recommend waiting until your baby is a bit older -- 9 or 10 months -- before offering allergenic foods such as milk eggs peanuts tree nuts (such as walnuts or almonds) fish shellfish soy and wheat. even if there’s no added risk of causing an allergy they note that an allergic reaction may be easier to manage in an older baby. and some pediatricians concerned about the particular severity of allergic reactions to peanuts and shellfish still suggest staying away from them until your child is up to 3 years old. whole cow's milk should not be given to babies younger than 1 year old because the proteins in whole milk can irritate the stomach. yogurt and soft cheeses are fine however because the proteins in these dairy products are broken down and less likely to cause tummy trouble. you should also still wait until at least 1 – some experts say 2 -- to introduce honey which can cause a potentially serious disease called infant botulism.
how can i protect my baby against food allergies?