Food Allergy Introduction Calculator
Get a timeline for introducing common allergens to your baby, following the latest AAP and LEAP study guidelines for early introduction.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
Research (including the landmark LEAP study) now shows that EARLY introduction of allergens (especially peanut) between 4-6 months can PREVENT food allergies. This is the opposite of older advice that recommended delaying allergens. Not medical advice -- babies with severe eczema or existing allergies should see an allergist first.
The Formula
Standard risk: introduce all major allergens by 6-9 months
High risk (severe eczema/family history): allergy testing first, then introduce peanut at 4-6 months
Give each new food 3-5 days before the next
High risk (severe eczema/family history): allergy testing first, then introduce peanut at 4-6 months
Give each new food 3-5 days before the next
Variables
- LEAP study — Learning Early About Peanut allergy -- showed 81% reduction in peanut allergy with early introduction
- Top 9 allergens — Peanut, egg, milk, wheat, soy, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, sesame
Example
6-month-old, no eczema, no family history: start introducing peanut (as thinned peanut butter), egg, and dairy now.
Tips
- Mix a small amount of smooth peanut butter with breastmilk or puree -- NEVER give whole peanuts
- Introduce one new allergen at a time, 3-5 days apart, in the morning
- Continue offering allergens regularly (2-3 times per week) after introduction
- Signs of allergic reaction: hives, swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing -- call 911 for severe reactions
- Babies with severe eczema should be tested for peanut allergy BEFORE introduction