For the first four to six months, babies get the nutrition they need from breast milk or formula. However, once the baby has more control, can sit without assistance and shows interest in other foods, many doctors give the go-ahead to feed them solid food. Many doctors advise parents to feed babies whatever the family eats, with the exception of egg whites, peanut butter and honey. However, Mayo Clinic research indicates there's no evidence that eggs or peanut butter will cause allergies. It's always a good idea to check with the pediatrician and follow his advice.
Eggs
Many doctors are still concerned that egg whites may set the child up for an allergic reaction, so they advise not feeding it to babies until they are 1 1/2 to 2 years old.
Cow's Milk
Since regular cow's milk doesn't have the nutrition babies need, most doctors don't recommend giving it to them until they have established a healthy appetite for solid foods. Giving them cow's milk may fill them up, so wait until they have eaten enough food for the nourishment they need.
Citrus Fruits and Juices
Avoid giving citrus fruits and juices to babies until they are at least a year old. The high acidic nature of the citrus may cause a rash and upset stomach.
Peanuts, Peanut Butter and Tree Nuts
Allergies to nuts may begin during the child's first year, so most doctors advise holding off on feeding them to babies until they are at least 1 1/2 to 2 years old. If there is a family history of allergies, the recommendation is to wait until the child is 2 or 3, since the risk of an allergic reaction is higher if a member of the family has a food allergy, eczema or asthma. Peanut butter is also hard for some people to swallow, and it may become a choking hazard.
Fish
If anyone in the family is allergic to fish, don't give the baby seafood until she is at least 2 years old. Again, a family history increases the child's chances of a reaction. Watch for rash, bloating, gas, diarrhea or any kind of discomfort after eating. A more severe reaction might be a breathing problem that will require emergency medical care.
Honey
Most honey contains spores that contain botulism. Although the small amount found in honey is harmless to adults, it may cause the baby to become sick because his system isn't strong enough to fight off the spores or toxins that may be in the honey.
Other Foods to Avoid
Don't feed the baby home cooked collard greens, spinach, turnips or beets. They may have a high amount of nitrates, which can cause the baby to become anemic. Avoid foods in large chunks or foods that are too soft because they may be a choking hazard. If you feed your baby grapes, cut them into quarters before giving them to her.
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