When is the best time to get started eating allergens?

By: Professor Carina Venter

GrowHappy ImmunoNutrition Squad Member

Professor in Pediatric Allergy at the University of Colorado and Children’s Hospital Colorado 
Author of the European, American and Canadian allergy prevention guidelines
Chair, Immunomodulation and Nutrition - European Academy of Asthma Allergy and Clinical Immunology

As soon as your child can start eating solid foods, you could start feeding allergens. It depends on their development, but most are ready between ages 4-6 months.

A summary of early allergen introduction studies showed us that the first year of life is the safest time to introduce common allergens, and the earlier the better, especially if at increased risk of developing food allergies. The goal is to get the allergens in by proactively feeding allergens in the first year of life; you and your baby can learn together in a controlled environment when you are in charge. 

Some signs that your baby may be ready to start solid foods are: 

1. Being able to control the head and neck

2. Sitting up with or without support

3. Bringing objects to the mouth

4. Losing the tongue thrust reflex that pushes food out of the mouth

5. Showing an interest in food and reaching for it