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Could my baby develop allergies?
Infants are prone to allergies because their digestive and immune systems have not yet fully matured. Your baby has a greater risk of developing allergies if both parents or a parent and a sibling have a history of allergy. Allergies include asthma, eczema, food allergy and hayfever.
What can I do to reduce the risk of allergies?
There’s no guarantee that your baby won’t develop allergies but there are steps you can take to lower the risk. Most importantly, do not smoke during pregnancy or around your child. Where possible breast feed for at least the first 6 months - not only does breastfeeding provide the most compatible and balanced nutrition, it may prevent the development of allergic diseases. If you have chosen to bottle feed, discuss infant formula options with your healthcare professional or pharmacist prior to commencement.
Once solid food has been introduced, avoiding certain foods such as egg, cows milk, nuts and shellfish until beyond 12 months of age may prevent allergic reaction to these foods later on – for more advice ask your healthcare professional.
What about cows milk allergy?
If your baby has an established cows milk allergy that has been identified by a healthcare professional and you have chosen to bottle feed, you will need a special formula, usually available by prescription from your GP or Paediatrician.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Breast milk is best for babies. Professional advice should be followed before using an Infant Formula. Introducing partial bottle feeding could negatively affect breastfeeding. Good maternal nutrition is important for breastfeeding and reversing a decision not to breast feed may be difficult. Infant Formula should be used as directed. Proper use of an Infant Formula is important to the health of the infant. Social and financial implications such as preparation requirements and the cost of providing formula up to the age of 12 months should be considered when selecting a method of feeding. |
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