The Complete Guide to Feeding Your Baby

The second type of intolerance is cause by the proteins found in grains. This is referred to as gluten intolerance.

So what exactly is gluten? Gluten is the protein found in such grains as wheat, rye, barley, and sometimes oats. If intolerant to gluten, when the substance comes into contact with your baby’s intestines, the intestinal lining becomes smooth. This prevents nutrients from being absorbed properly by the body. Symptoms include: nausea, stomach pain, weight loss, diarrhea and irritability.

Foods with gluten should never be given to children under 6 months of age. The older your baby, the less likely his intestines are going to develop gluten intolerance (also known as celiac disease). However, if your baby has been diagnosed with celiac disease, he will have to permanently avoid such gluten-filled foods as breads, pastas and cereals. If this is the case, contact your pediatrician in order to draw up a diet plan to make sure your baby is still getting the right amount of nutrients. Thankfully, more and more stores are stocking up on a nice range of gluten-free products, including breads and cookies.

1. Breastfeed for as long as possible. If you’ve got a history of allergies in the family, avoid consuming the foods in question while breastfeeding.
2. Do not start weaning your child until after 6 months of age.
3. Consider delaying dairy products until your child is 12 months old, and eggs until he is 2 years old.
4. Try to avoid introducing any nuts until he is around 3 years old.
5. When you begin including solid foods into your baby’s diet, be sure to do it gradually. Introduce one new food at a time and wait a few days, keeping an eye out for any allergic reactions.

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