Baby Foods To Avoid
This list of baby foods to avoid contains foods known to provoke allergic reactions or digestive problems in babies.
This doesn’t mean that all these foods will make your child unwell.
But if you’re worried that your baby is very sensitive – maybe because you have a food allergy yourself – then it is definitely worth avoiding them for the first year, at least.
We actually introduced some of these foods – such as fish, tomatoes and wheat – to our babies at around 7 or 8 months. But we were careful to apply the four day rule and watch for any reaction.
The important thing is to be aware that some of these foods are more likely than others to cause problems.
It does not necessarily mean that you have to exclude them all from your baby’s diet – however, you should discuss the introduction of ANY new foods with your child’s doctor.
If you decide to introduce solids to your baby before 6 months of age, then we strongly suggest that you steer clear of these foods. His digestive system will be immature and he’s more likely to experience problems. Stick to these baby friendly foods at first.
Baby Foods To Avoid – Foods More Likely To Cause An Allergic Reaction Or Digestive Problem
- Fish – particularly tuna, salmon, halibut, mackerel and sardines
- Berries – especially strawberries (but blueberries are NOT considered highly allergenic)
- Cinnamon
- Citrus fruits – orange, grapefruit, lemon, lime and tangerine
- Sesame seeds/sesame oil
- Corn
- Tomatoes
- Yeast
NOTE: Until recently, peanuts and peanut butter were included on this list. However, experts now believe that the early introduction of peanuts may help PREVENT nut allergies
Baby Foods To Avoid – Foods That Present A Choking Hazard
- Nuts
- Large chunks of fruit or vegetables, raw or cooked
- Large chunks of meat
- Whole grapes or cherry tomatoes – always cut into quarters
- Popcorn
- Seeds
- Raisins – wait until your baby has teeth and is chewing well
Also Consider Avoiding...
Honey
NEVER give honey to a baby under one year of age.
Honey can contain botulism spores. In babies, the spores can grow and produce life-threatening toxins.
Do not use honey to sweeten yogurt, or in any other form, before your baby’s first birthday
Liver
Liver does NOT have to be avoided altogether but should only be offered at one meal per week, with your doctor’s consent. This is because liver contains preformed vitamin A… too much of which may be harmful to baby.
Remember to refer to this list of “baby foods to avoid” whenever you introduce new foods to your baby. And get your baby off to a healthy start!
Sources:
Most & Least Allergenic Foods – www.askdrsears.com
American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology - Fish Allergy
More baby food tips and information…
Constipation – baby foods to avoid and how to help your little one
Infant diarrhea – foods to avoid and foods that may help
The dangers of adding salt to baby food
Giving your baby garlic, herbs and spices
