Category: Toddler allergies

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Toddler food allergies

Toddler food allergies Microsoft Word – Toddler food allergies.docx

Coping with toddler food allergies can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right steps, it becomes part of everyday life. Here’s a practical, parent-focused guide:


  1. Get a clear diagnosis and plan

    • Work with a paediatrician or paediatric allergist to confirm the allergy through proper testing.

    • Ask for a written allergy action plan so you and caregivers know exactly what to do in case of exposure.


  2. Learn to read food labels like a pro

    • In South Africa (and most countries), allergens such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish must be clearly listed.

    • Always check every time you buy, even for familiar products—recipes change without warning.


  3. Create a safe food routine at home

    • Store allergen-free foods separately from allergen-containing ones.

    • Use dedicated cutting boards, utensils, and plates to avoid cross-contamination.

    • Introduce “safe snack” zones so your toddler can eat without worry.


  4. Teach your toddler (in age-appropriate ways)

    • Use simple phrases like “this food makes me sick” or “I can only eat safe foods.”

    • Role-play saying “no, thank you” when offered unknown food.


  5. Prepare for outings and social events

    • Bring pre-packed safe snacks or meals.

    • Talk to hosts, day care staff, or teachers in advance about your child’s allergies.

    • Carry a small “allergy kit” with safe snacks, wet wipes, and emergency medication (like an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed).


  6. Build a support system

    • Share your child’s allergy needs with family, friends, and caregivers.

    • Connect with other allergy parents—many tips come from lived experience.


  7. Focus on what they can eat

    • Create a variety of meals and snacks from safe ingredients to avoid mealtime stress.

    • Involve your toddler in food prep so they feel empowered, not restricted.


  8. Stay calm but prepared

    • Accidents can happen—being prepared reduces panic.

    • Keep emergency numbers handy and stay up to date on first aid for allergic reactions.

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Non-dairy milk options for toddlers

Non-dairy milk options for toddlers Microsoft Word – Non-dairy milk options for toddlers.docx

Here’s a breakdown of non-dairy milk options for toddlers — including nutrition, safety, and what to watch for — since not all plant milks are created equal for little ones.


Best Non-Dairy Milk Choices for Toddlers (12+ months)

(Always choose unsweetened, fortified versions unless advised otherwise by a doctor)

Milk Type Pros Cons / Watch For



Fortified Soy Milk

Closest nutrition to cow’s milk (protein + fat + calcium), widely available, often fortified with vitamin D & B12.


Some kids dislike taste; possible allergen.



Fortified Oat Milk

Creamy texture, often well-accepted; fortified with calcium & vitamin D; gluten-free if certified.


Lower protein than soy (unless fortified with protein); can be higher in carbs.


Fortified Pea Protein Milk

Good protein (similar to cow’s milk), creamy; usually fortified with calcium & vitamin D.


Less common, may be pricier.


Fortified Almond Milk

Low calories, fortified with calcium & vitamin D; mild taste.


Very low protein; possible allergen.


Fortified Coconut Milk (carton)


Creamy, good for cooking; fortified options available.

Very low protein; higher in saturated fat; not the same as canned coconut milk (too high fat for daily drinking).



Hemp Milk

Some protein, contains omega-3 fats; often fortified.


Taste can be earthy; less available.



Rice Milk Mild taste; fortified versions exist.

Very low protein; higher in sugars; possible arsenic concerns for young children (limit use).


Key Tips for Toddlers


  1. Under 12 months: Stick to breastmilk or infant formula — plant milks aren’t nutritionally complete for this age.

  2. From 12 months: If replacing cow’s milk, choose a protein-rich, fortified option like soy or pea milk.

  3. Fortification matters: Look for at least:


    • Calcium ~120 mg per 100 ml


    • Vitamin D (~1–1.5 mcg per 100 ml)


    • Protein ≥ 3 g per 100 ml is ideal


  4. Rotate types: Mixing up milks (e.g., soy + oat) adds variety and nutrient diversity.


  5. Watch added sugars: Choose unsweetened to avoid extra sugar in your toddler’s diet.


  6. Balance the diet: Since many plant milks are low in protein and fat, make sure toddlers get these from foods like beans, lentils, tofu, nut butters, avocado, eggs (if no allergy), and healthy oils.

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Toddler milk allergy

Toddler milk allergy Microsoft Word – Toddler milk allergy.docx

For a toddler with cow’s milk allergy (CMA), the key is to completely avoid all cow’s milk proteins (casein and whey) while still ensuring they get enough calcium, vitamin D, healthy fats, and protein from other sources for growth.

Here’s a practical breakdown:


  1. Foods to Avoid


    • All forms of cow’s milk (whole, skim, condensed, evaporated)


    • Dairy products: cheese, yoghurt, butter, cream, sour cream, custard, ice cream


    • Hidden sources: milk powder, milk solids, casein, whey, lactose (often contains milk proteins), milk-derived flavourings

    • Many baked goods, processed snacks, soups, sauces, and instant cereals may contain milk—always read labels.


  2. Safe Milk Alternatives


    Choose fortified, unsweetened plant-based or special formulas (check with your pediatrician). Examples:

    • Fortified oat milk (good for baking & cooking)


    • Fortified soy milk (higher in protein)


    • Fortified almond or rice milk (lower in protein—pair with other protein foods)


    • Hypoallergenic formulas for toddlers if needed:


      • Extensively hydrolyzed formula (EHF)


      • Amino acid-based formula (AAF)


  3. Key Nutrients & Where to Get Them

    Nutrient Dairy-Free Sources



    Calcium

    Fortified plant milks, fortified cereals, tofu (calcium-set), leafy greens (spinach, kale), broccoli, chia seeds, tahini


    Vitamin D Fortified plant milks/cereals, safe sunlight exposure, supplements if advised


    Protein Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, lentils, chickpeas, soy products, quinoa


    Healthy fats


    Avocado, nut butters, seeds, olive oil, fatty fish


  4. Example Daily Diet Plan (Age 1–3) Breakfast

    • Fortified oat milk porridge with chia seeds & mashed banana


    • Side of berries


      Snack


    • Apple slices with almond butter (if nut-safe) or hummus


      Lunch


    • Mini chicken & veggie patties


    • Steamed broccoli & sweet potato


    • Water or fortified soy milk


      Snack


    • Dairy-free yoghurt (soy or coconut-based) with oats


      Dinner


    • Salmon flakes with quinoa and roasted carrots


    • Side of avocado


      Before bed (if needed)

    • Fortified plant milk or hypoallergenic toddler formula


  5. Tips for Success


    • Always check “may contain milk” labels—depending on allergy severity, cross-contact can matter.

    • If your toddler is in day care or stays with relatives, give them a clear list of unsafe and safe foods.

    • Track growth with your paediatrician or a paediatric dietitian to ensure no nutrient gaps.


    • Some toddlers with CMA outgrow it—your doctor may recommend a supervised milk challenge later.