Why Timely Weaning Matters – Especially for Babies at Higher Allergy Risk
- The London Allergy Clinic
- 12 minutes ago
- 3 min read
The London Allergy Clinic, supports parents with evidence-based advice on weaning, allergy testing and early food introduction. Our paediatric team is highly experienced in helping families safely navigate the early years, especially when babies are at higher risk of conditions such as cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA), egg allergy, peanut allergy, or infant eczema.
Many parents feel uncertain about how and when to introduce allergens during weaning. Introducing solids is a big milestone and for babies at higher risk of food allergies, timing can make a real difference.
Below, we outline key facts every parent should know.
When Should I Start Weaning My Baby?
Most babies are ready to start solids around 6 months of age. The current UK guidance recommends:
• Avoid introducing solids before 17 weeks (just over 4 months)
• Do not delay weaning significantly beyond 6 months
• Your baby should be able to sit with support and have good hand eye coordination
• They should be able to swallow (rather than push food out of their mouth)
Starting at the right time supports healthy development and immune tolerance, particularly for allergenic foods.
Introducing Allergens Early: What Parents Should Know
We now understand that early introduction of allergens — such as egg and peanut — can lower the risk of developing an allergy to them.
Delaying introduction, or avoiding these foods altogether, may in fact increase the likelihood of developing immediate-type food allergies.
For parents of babies at high-risk of food allergies, it is a good idea to seek advice beforehand where possible.
Who Is at Higher Risk of Food Allergy?
Some infants are more likely to develop allergies, particularly those who:
Have moderate to severe eczema
Already have a diagnosed food allergy (e.g. to milk, egg or peanut)
For these babies, additional support and allergy testing may be appropriate.
Should My Baby Be Tested Before Weaning?
In certain high-risk infants, such as those with eczema or existing allergies, it is important to seek advice before starting solids.
Where appropriate, allergy testing before weaning may be recommended. This helps identify risks early and gives you a safer starting point. But if testing isn’t available or would delay weaning, it's usually best not to postpone starting solids, as this delay may increase the risk of developing immediate type food allergies.
The two reliable forms of allergy testing commonly used are:
Skin prick testing
Specific IgE blood testing
You can contact our team for advice on whether testing is suitable for your child.
How a Paediatric Allergy Dietitian Can Help
Working with a registered paediatric allergy dietitian can be invaluable during the weaning stage. At the London Allergy Clinic, Misbah Primett offers tailored support to help parents:
Plan the safe and timely introduction of allergenic foods.
Give practical, tailored advice on food avoidance if needed.
Guide you on how to keep tolerated allergens in the diet.
Suggest nutritionally appropriate alternatives to make sure you baby is still getting the energy, protein, iron, calcium and other nutrients they need for healthy growth.
Follow guidance for the milk ladder and reintroduction of foods.
Support infants with cow’s milk protein allergy, nut allergies, or multiple food sensitivities
Seeking advice from a paediatric allergy specialist such as Dr Emily Derrick, who is highly experienced in caring for infants and children with eczema, food allergies and gastrointestinal allergic conditions, can also offer parents peace of mind and clarity.
Weaning is a crucial stage in a baby’s development. For families of children with eczema, suspected allergies or a family history of atopy, taking a proactive and supported approach can make a meaningful difference.
At the London Allergy Clinic, we offer:
Private baby allergy testing
Specialist guidance for cow’s milk protein allergy, egg allergy, and peanut allergy
Support from expert clinicians in paediatric allergy and nutrition
To discuss your baby’s needs or to book a consultation, please get in touch with our team.
Misbah Primett RD BSc AFHEA
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