The risk of a baby’s allergies is a complex question. Since birth, some children can be susceptible to different elements and issues in the surrounding world. That is why proper nutrition is something to which attention should be paid in the first place. If the baby has symptoms of allergy, it is necessary to carry out diagnostics, which will allow you to identify allergens and begin treatment of the disease as soon as possible. Nevertheless, it is always better to prevent something than to treat it.
The risks and signs of allergies
First of all, it is crucial to realize what the allergy is. An allergy is a cross-reaction of the immune system to certain substances (allergens) that are usually safe for most people. The risk of allergies for some children can be hereditary, especially if someone from close relatives already has specific allergic reactions.
The signs of allergies can vary and depend on the allergen with which the child is in contact. Mostly, the allergies have the following symptoms:
1. Skin rashes (eczema, irritation, itching).
2. Swelling on the face, mouth, and throat.
3. Irritation and itching in the nose and eyes.
4. Bronchial asthma, dry cough, suffocation.
So, what are the ways to prevent allergic reactions if the baby has a risk of allergies?
The breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is the best way to reduce the likelihood of developing allergic reactions if your baby has a risk of allergies. Breast milk consists of antibodies and other components which can help to strengthen a baby’s immune system. Nevertheless, there are some situations when breastfeeding is not available.
Introduction of supplementary feeding
When breastfeeding is impossible or does not fully meet your child’s nutritional needs, you, as a parent, must introduce supplementary feeding. Remember that introduction of new products should be gradual, one by one. It is needed to understand which products can cause allergic reactions. Traditionally, weaning is allowed after 6 months.
Hypoallergenic formula
One of the best ways to balance nutrition, if breastfeeding is unavailable, is selecting the right baby’s formula. Parents can choose hypoallergenic formula for the baby. European brand HiPP suggests one of the best HA formulas on the market. HA formula is crucial for babies with the risk of allergies, as it contains safe ingredients for most babies. Talking about the best HA formula, HiPP HA (hypoallergenic) is created to reduce the risk of milk protein allergy. It is based on the hydrolyzed cow milk protein. Such protein is low in allergens. Moreover, it is rich in probiotics and prebiotics to help the baby’s digestive processes. German presents HiPP HA Formula for different stages:
1. HiPP German HA Hypoallergenic Combiotic Stage PRE (0 to 6 months).
2. HiPP German HA Hypoallergenic Combiotic Stage 1 (0 to 6 months).
3. HiPP German HA Hypoallergenic Combiotic Stage 2 (6 to 12 months).
Nevertheless, before choosing this formula, consultation with the doctor is needed.
The general pieces of advice to reduce the risk of allergies
- Try to avoid the introduction of different new products at the same time. The gradual introduction of supplementary feeding can help determine which exact product can cause an allergy if it appears.
- Watch the baby’s reaction to new products and immediately contact the doctor for any allergy symptoms.
- Re-introducing allergenic foods can help your child overcome allergies, so you should only avoid these foods for a while.
Conclusion
Every baby is unique. That is why they can react to nutrition differently. It is important to emphasize that balanced nutrition for a baby with a risk of allergies is vital for the health and well-being of the baby. The careful introduction of new products and the usage of HA baby formulas can significantly reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
