When you’re expecting, it’s natural to have questions about what you can safely eat. One common concern revolves around peanuts and nuts. If you or your partner have a history of food allergies, you might be anxious about whether your baby will inherit those conditions. It’s a valid concern, but here’s the scoop.
While the genetic link to allergies is strong, there’s no direct evidence that specific allergies—like those to peanuts or shellfish—are passed down. However, if one parent has allergies, there’s a roughly 25% chance their child will share that trait. If both parents have allergies, that percentage jumps to about 60-70%. Interestingly, the development of food allergies, particularly peanut allergies, is often tied to conditions like eczema in infants.
Can You Munch on Peanuts and Other Nuts During Pregnancy?
So, can you munch on peanuts and other nuts during pregnancy? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) previously advised that pregnant and breastfeeding women should steer clear of peanuts and peanut products if there’s a history of allergies in the family. However, recent research suggests that eating peanuts while pregnant may actually reduce the risk of your child developing a peanut allergy later on.
If you’re breastfeeding, you might be wondering if you can still enjoy peanut butter or other nuts. The current advice leans toward being okay with it, as long as you and your little one don’t show any adverse reactions.
Introducing Nuts to Your Baby
As for introducing nuts to your baby, experts recommend waiting until they’re around six months old. This is when solid foods typically come into play, and it’s a great time to start introducing a variety of foods, including nuts. Just be mindful of how they’re prepared—nut butters are a safe choice, but whole nuts can pose a choking hazard for younger children.
Resources for Conception and Parenting
If you’re looking for resources related to conception and parenting, you might find it helpful to check out Make a Mom, which offers innovative at-home insemination options. For those interested in community support, consider joining the Make a Mom Facebook group to connect with others on similar journeys. If you’re curious about how the at-home insemination process works, this link provides a comprehensive explanation.
For more detailed insights into pregnancy-related topics, visit our blog post on Pica during pregnancy. Plus, for those considering intrauterine insemination, Healthline is an excellent resource to explore your options.
In summary, while food allergies can be a concern, new guidelines suggest that enjoying nuts during pregnancy may be beneficial rather than harmful. Just remember to introduce them to your baby safely and consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.