Food allergies affect 6 to 8 percent of children under age 5, MayoClinic.com estimates. Many fruits and fruit juices contain a natural preservative known as salicylate, which can be an allergen for some. Any allergic reaction means your child's body is over-reacting to a certain element inside food, causing an extreme immune response. When introducing juice to your little one, be on the lookout for certain symptoms indicating a food allergy; discuss appropriate nutrition with your pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby.
Diarrhea
A food allergy can affect your child's digestive system. One sign that your child might be allergic to juice is diarrhea. Loose stools caused by an allergy may appear with mucus or even blood; certain juices can cause diarrhea without an allergic reaction. Apple, cherry and pear juices have a large amount of sorbitol, a sugar that can induce loose bowels. Too much fiber can also lead to diarrhea from juice.
Eczema
A food allergy may cause eczema. Eczema is characterized by dry, itchy and red skin. There are usually bumps that can be irritating and may even secrete pus. If your child has a food allergy, it may cause or worsen eczema. Common foods that can elicit this response include tropical fruits, which may be readily found in certain juices.
Respiratory Symptoms
One of the most dangerous signs that your baby is having an allergic reaction to juice comes in the form of respiratory symptoms. Over-reaction by your child's immune system can lead to a runny nose, eyes watering or wheezing. These symptoms can progress into a condition known as anaphylaxis, which is marked by the inflammation of the throat that can make breathing hard or impossible. Allergic shock involves welts and lung spasms; a drop in blood pressure may also occur. If you suspect your child is having a food allergy indicated by respiratory systems, seek immediate medical help.
Precautions
Any allergic reaction, even if suspected, warrants a call to your child's pediatrician.
Contact your doctor if you suspect a food allergy. You can target the food culprit by following certain guidelines for food introduction to your baby. MayoClinic.com suggests waiting to introduce juice until your child is at least 6 months old. Offer your child a single food or beverage, then wait three to five days for an indication of a reaction. Always consult with your pediatrician before starting new foods.
