I know babies aren't supposed to have strawberries at first, but does anyone know when it's okay? We gave our 12 month old a little today, and he seemed to be fine, but I wasn't sure. Thanks!
I don't think there is a certain time when you can start strawberries. Unless your 1 year old has had previous food allergies, then I would think he could eat most anything at this age (within his ability anyway). My 1 year old loved strawberries and kiwi just cut very small.
If you don't have food allergies in your family, I wouldn't be too worried about most things after 1 year. However, you should make sure to avoid problems with allergies by not giving the same foods everyday. So, I would suggest only giving things like strawberries every 4th day (i.e., twice per week). Another thing to be aware of is that food reactions can be delayed. Typical food allergies are immediate (IgE) reactions, but there can also be delayed reactions up to 72 hours after the offending food is given (that's the reason why a 4 day rotation is recommended).
My pediatrician said that the only foods to avoid giving a 12-month old are:
eggs - they recommend waiting until 2 years of age
peanut butter and any nut product - wait until 3 years of age
As long as your son didn't seem to have an allergic reaction to strawberries, he should be fine. :-)
If I am worried at all about how my son would react to foods, I just give him a little taste first and then wait to see what happens. Although...he is such a picky eater right now, all new foods that I try to give him are rejected and often times thrown on the floor (sigh!) LOL
Good luck!
In addition to the other advice, while you wait for the 4th day to see if there is any type of a reaction, don't introduce another new food during that time. You won't know for sure which food your son is reacting to.
My son has multiple food allergies (soy, peanuts, tree nuts, and wheat). Watch for eczema as a reaction too. Food allergies won't always be hives and trouble breathing.
