Symptoms of Food Allergies in Babies

When introducing new foods to babies - homemade or store-bought - parents should be especially cautious and aware of the symptoms of allergies, especially if food allergies run in the family.

If your baby is allergic to a food, her body treats the food like an invader and launches an immune-system attack.

Sometimes the body makes an antibody called IgE, a protein that can detect the food. If the food is eaten again, the antibody tells your baby's immune system to release substances such as histamine to fight the "invader."

Food allergies are common, especially in the first 3 years of life. They are more common in those with a family history of food allergies, or in those with a broader allergic family history (allergy, eczema, or asthma).

Food allergies are also more common in babies who are exposed to allergic foods at an early age. About 90 percent of food allergies in babies and children are to one of 5 foods: cow’s milk, soy, eggs, peanuts, or wheat.