Can I eat peanuts around my newborn?

Can I Eat Peanuts Around My Newborn?
The question of whether you can eat peanuts around your newborn is a nuanced one, particularly in light of recent guidelines regarding the introduction of allergenic foods to infants. Historically, many parents were advised to avoid introducing peanuts to their babies due to concerns about allergies. However, current research suggests a different approach that may actually help reduce the risk of developing peanut allergies.
Introducing Peanuts Early
Recent recommendations from health authorities, including the National Institutes of Health, advocate for introducing peanut products to infants as early as 4 to 6 months of age. This shift is based on studies indicating that early exposure to peanuts can significantly lower the risk of developing a peanut allergy later in life. In fact, research has shown that infants who are introduced to peanuts between 4 and 11 months have an 80% reduced risk of developing an allergy compared to those who avoid peanuts altogether.
Safety Considerations
While introducing peanuts can be beneficial, safety is paramount. Peanuts pose a choking hazard for young children, so it’s crucial to offer them in an age-appropriate form. For instance, peanut butter can be thinned with water or mixed into other foods to make it safer for infants. When first introducing peanuts, parents are advised to wait 10 minutes between initial tastes to monitor for any allergic reactions. If no reaction occurs, parents can gradually increase the amount offered.
What About Parents Eating Peanuts?
If you are a breastfeeding mother, consuming peanuts while nursing may also play a role in your baby’s exposure to allergens. Some studies suggest that maternal consumption of peanuts during pregnancy and lactation could potentially help in sensitizing the infant’s immune system to peanuts, thereby reducing the risk of allergy. However, this is a topic that should be discussed with your pediatrician, especially if there is a family history of allergies.
Consulting with Healthcare Providers
Before making any changes to your baby’s diet, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your baby’s health history and any potential risk factors. This is particularly important for infants with existing conditions such as severe eczema or other food allergies, as they may require a more cautious approach.
In conclusion, while you can eat peanuts around your newborn, the focus should be on how and when to introduce peanuts into your baby’s diet safely. Early introduction, under the right circumstances, can be a proactive step in preventing peanut allergies, but always prioritize safety and consult with a healthcare professional for tailored guidance.

Can I eat peanuts while breastfeeding a newborn?

If you’d like to eat peanuts or foods containing peanuts, such as peanut butter, while breastfeeding, you can do so as part of a healthy, balanced diet (unless, of course, you’re allergic to them).

What foods should I avoid while breastfeeding a baby gassy?

If you notice that each time you eat something your baby becomes fussy, try avoiding the food for a while and see what happens. Many mothers have reported foods such as kale, spinach, beans, onions, garlic, peppers or spicy foods cause infant gas, while many babies tolerate these foods just fine.

Can you eat nuts when you have a newborn?

You can consume walnuts and almonds while breastfeeding. Most nuts are safe to consume as they have high protein, low saturated fats, and zero cholesterol (7). Consult your doctor before consuming any nuts to confirm you or your baby are allergic to them.

Do peanuts make babies gassy?

If you find your baby reacting to something in your diet, cow’s milk products, soy, wheat, corn, eggs and peanuts are often the culprits. Brassica veggies (such as cauliflower, broccoli or brussels sprouts) can sometimes give your baby gas.

How do I know if my newborn is allergic to peanut butter?

Signs of a peanut allergy

1. Lip swelling.
2. Vomiting.
3. Widespread hives (welts) over the body.
4. Face or tongue swelling.
5. Any difficulty breathing.
6. Wheezing.
7. Repetitive coughing.
8. Change in skin color (pale, blue)

Is it OK for dad to kiss newborn?

Do not kiss a baby unless you are their parent or main carer – and even then, avoid kissing if you have an infection or are unwell. Do not visit a baby if you are ill, have recently been ill or have an infection. This includes colds, active cold sores as well as diarrhea and vomiting illnesses.

Can I eat peanuts near baby?

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you do not need to avoid foods that can trigger allergic reactions (including peanuts), unless you’re allergic to them.

Can peanut allergies be airborne?

Abstract. Background: Allergic reactions to food allergens usually occur after ingestion. However, fear of reactions to airborne peanut is a common concern for people with peanut allergy. There are no scientific reports on severe reactions with airborne peanut allergen.

Can I kiss my newborn after eating peanuts?

A ‘big, affectionate kiss’ from someone who has recently eaten peanuts or a peanut-containing product could trigger an allergy to the nut in some children. This is an even greater risk in a baby who already has eczema, as infants with this condition are known to be at much higher risk of developing peanut allergy.