The exact reason why your baby is allergic to so many foods isn't fully understood, but it boils down to their immune system mistakenly identifying those foods as dangerous.
Here's a breakdown:
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Immune System Misidentification: A food allergy occurs when your baby's immune system mistakenly identifies a food as a threat to their health. This trigger sets off a chain reaction intended to protect the body.
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IgE Antibodies: When your baby eats a food their body considers an allergen, their immune system produces immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to that food.
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Histamine Release: The next time your baby consumes that food, the IgE antibodies recognize it and trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals from cells. These chemicals cause the allergic reaction, which can manifest in various symptoms.
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Unclear Cause: While we understand how food allergies happen, the precise reason why some babies develop them and others don't remains unclear. Researchers believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors likely plays a role.
Possible contributing factors being researched include:
- Genetics: Babies with a family history of allergies (food allergies, eczema, asthma, hay fever) are at a higher risk of developing food allergies themselves.
- Early Exposure (or Lack Thereof): The timing of introducing certain foods to a baby's diet might influence the development of allergies, but guidelines are constantly evolving. Speak with your pediatrician about the latest recommendations.
- Gut Microbiome: The balance of bacteria in the gut might play a role in the development of allergies.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors, like pollution, may also contribute.
What to do if your baby has multiple food allergies:
- Consult an Allergist: A pediatric allergist can properly diagnose food allergies through skin prick tests or blood tests. They can also provide guidance on managing the allergies.
- Strict Avoidance: Carefully avoid all foods that your baby is allergic to. This includes reading labels meticulously and informing caregivers.
- Emergency Plan: Work with your allergist to create an emergency plan in case of accidental exposure. This might include carrying epinephrine auto-injectors (like an EpiPen) if the allergies are severe.
- Nutritional Guidance: A registered dietitian can help ensure your baby is getting adequate nutrition while avoiding allergens. This is especially important when multiple foods are restricted.
