This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.
Baby Allergies
Allergies in babies are increasing — food allergies, cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA), and eczema affect more and more families. The good news: many allergies are outgrown, and new research shows that EARLY introduction of allergens (not avoidance!) can prevent allergies.
Possible Causes
- 1Genetic predisposition (atopy): if one parent has allergies, risk is 20-40%; if both parents, 60-80%
- 2Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA): most common food allergy in infancy (2-3% of all babies)
- 3Other common allergens: egg, peanut, wheat, soy, fish, nuts
- 4Disrupted skin barrier in eczema: allergens can enter through damaged skin
- 5Hygiene hypothesis: too little contact with germs may misprogramme the immune system
What You Can Do
- CMPA (breastfed babies): mother eliminates cow's milk products from her diet for 2-4 weeks trial period
- CMPA (formula-fed babies): switch to extensively hydrolysed or amino acid-based formula
- Early allergen introduction (from 4-6 months): introduce peanut, egg, cow's milk in small amounts — proven to protect
- Treat eczema consistently: daily moisturising (basic skincare) strengthens the skin barrier
- Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine drops) for allergic reactions — only after consulting the doctor
When to See a Doctor
- Anaphylaxis: swelling of lips/face, breathing difficulty, vomiting after eating → EMERGENCY 911/112
- Blood and mucus in stool (sign of CMPA or allergic proctocolitis)
- Failure to thrive: baby is not gaining adequate weight
- Severe eczema not responding to basic skincare
- Chronic diarrhoea or vomiting after specific foods
- Urticaria (hives) or angioedema after food contact
Age-Specific Notes
0-6 months: CMPA is the most common allergy. Symptoms: fussiness, spitting up, blood in stool, eczema. 4-6 months: WINDOW of opportunity — introduce allergenic foods (LEAP study: 86% fewer peanut allergies through early introduction!). 6-12 months: Consistently introduce various foods. 1-3 years: Many allergies (milk, egg, soy, wheat) are OUTGROWN during this time. Peanut and tree nut allergies are more likely to persist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I avoid allergenic foods?
How do I recognise a cow's milk protein allergy?
Will my baby outgrow their allergy?
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This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.