Common allergens: introduce early

The latest guidance turns older advice on its head: introducing common allergens early and often reduces allergy risk. That includes peanut, egg, dairy, wheat, soy, fish, tree nuts, and sesame — all appropriate to introduce around 6 months once baby is tolerating other foods. Start with a small amount (½ teaspoon of thinned peanut butter mixed into a familiar puree, for example). Offer on a calm morning when you can watch for reactions over the next 2 hours. If well tolerated, incorporate 2–3 times a week to maintain tolerance. Watch for signs of a reaction: hives, swelling around the mouth or face, vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis is rare on first introductions but real — call 911 for any breathing trouble. Discuss with your pediatrician first if there's severe eczema or a strong family history.