Food allergies are more common in young children than in adults. They happen when your immune system is offended by a certain food and its various forms. They manifest in a variety of symptoms, some very severe. IgE-mediated reactions typically occur immediately after ingestion, whereas non-IgE-mediated reactions are delayed and can take up to 48 hours to develop but still involve the immune system. Food allergies can disrupt family life and badly affect your child’s overall health if not properly managed.

Gosh, so what do food allergies in toddlers look like?

Some of the most common are caused by milk, eggs, nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. Symptoms of an IgE allergic reaction can include immediate (within minutes or up to two hours) hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, vomiting, diarrhoea, and difficulty breathing.

Non-IgE reactions are much slower, and symptoms include changes in stools (causing diarrhoea or constipation), vomiting, weight loss, abdominal pain, and an exacerbation in chronic conditions like eczema.

Symptoms of a food intolerance are typically not as severe as an allergic reaction, but they’re still unpleasant. Lactose intolerance is not common in children under five years of age unless they have been on antibiotics, which might lead to a short-term issue. This intolerance can cause abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and constipation. Toddlers are most likely to have a non-IgE milk allergy.

How to manage allergies and intolerances in toddlers

If a child has a known food allergy or intolerance, it is important for parents to be diligent about avoiding trigger foods. This may involve reading food labels, preparing meals at home, and informing childcare providers or other carers about the child's dietary restrictions.

Nutritional support for a toddler with a food allergy

If a child needs to avoid an allergen, it is important to think about the nutrients they are missing because of this and replace them with suitable alternatives. For example, if they are allergic to milk, a suitable alternative milk, such as soy with added calcium and iodine, may be needed.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend a food challenge, which involves gradually introducing small amounts of a trigger food to see if a reaction occurs. This can help to determine if a child has outgrown an allergy or if they need to continue avoiding the food. This should only be done under the guidance of a medical doctor professional to ensure your little one is safe to undertake this. Some children are invited to undertake challenges in hospitals, while others might be asked to try at home, depending on the type of allergy they have.

Parents should also be prepared in case of an allergic reaction. This would include carrying antihistamines and may involve carrying an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an EpiPen, and knowing how to use it in case of an emergency.

What do I need to know about food allergies in toddlers?

On our Toddler Nutrition Journey, we look at allergies that may trouble your tot.