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Wheat Allergy in Babies

Wheat is one of the most common causes of allergy in babies and young children. According to William and Martha Sears of AskDrSears.com, wheat is one of seven foods responsible for over 90 percent of food allergies. The risk of food allergy is highest in babies whose parents have food allergies.

  1. Symptoms

    • Wheat allergy can affect a baby's respiratory system, skin, digestive system or brain. Possible symptoms include wheezing, congestion, eczema, hives, diarrhea, constipation, excessive spitting up, headache, behavioral changes and fussiness. If your baby ever has a severe allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention.

    Diagnosis

    • Keep a food diary when a food allergy is suspected. If wheat appears to be causing a reaction, eliminate wheat from the baby's diet. It may take up to two weeks for symptoms to resolve. An allergist can confirm wheat allergy by performing skin or blood tests.

    Outgrowing Allergy

    • According to AskDrSears.com, most children will outgrow food allergies by the age of 3. An allergist can test the child periodically to see if wheat can be reintroduced into his diet.

    Prevention

    • To reduce the risk of allergy, wait until your baby is at least 1 year old before introducing the most allergenic foods into his diet, especially if a parent has food allergies. In addition to wheat, the most allergenic foods are cow's milk, soy, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts and eggs.

    Celiac Disease

    • Celiac disease is an intolerance to gluten, which is found in wheat among other grains. In those with celiac disease, gluten attacks the lining of the small intestine. Unlike wheat allergy, celiac disease cannot be outgrown. The treatment for celiac disease is a lifelong gluten-free diet. Celiac disease can be diagnosed through blood antibody testing.

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