Food Allergies & Anaphylaxis 

 

Abington Pediatrics recommends introducing a variety of foods to your child, one type of food at a time, with a few days in between each new food. We recommend that you do not give your child honey until after age one and that you avoid choking hazards (peanuts, popcorn, hotdogs, grapes, etc.). As far as common allergens are concerned - peanuts, seafood, eggs - there is no restriction on when you can start these foods. If you have a strong family history of food allergies, please discuss this with your doctor before introducing specific foods. 

 

Although we do not recommend avoiding any particular food (except honey), it is important to be aware of food allergy symptoms and to know when to call for help. A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, can be fatal and requires immediate medical attention. It is also important that you have Children's Benadryl (diphenhydramine) at home which can help to reduce mild allergy symptoms. If you child has a known allergy, please make sure you have a current prescription for epinephrine.