FOODS THAT ARE DANGEROUS FOR BABIES

Every five days, a child dies in the U.S. from choking on food, according to the New York State Department of Public Health. Parents, relatives and caregivers who take care of infants need to understand the dangers of choking hazards, pathogens, allergens and special occasion foods to protect children from potential dangers.

Choking

The texture and size of food are the criteria that determine its potential as a choking hazard. Hard and chewy textures and slicing food into a size that may lodge in a small trachea are the most common dangers associated with dangerous foods for babies. Sliced hot dogs, raw vegetables such as carrots and celery, cheese pieces, popcorn, nuts and dried fruit are not recommended to feed an infant.

Pathogens

Honey and dark corn syrup occasionally carry a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum, which is harmless for most adults, but babies have underdeveloped immune systems that struggle to fight off even minor pathogens and are susceptible to their harmful effects. Symptoms of the related disorder known as botulism include diarrhea and stomach upset. Raw milk also may contain bacteria harmful to babies' health. Feed babies only pasteurized milk to prevent possible infection.

Allergens

An egg allergy is common for children fewer than 5 years old, but they often outgrow the condition as they age. Symptoms of an egg allergy include a rash and general illness after eating eggs. A doctor can diagnose it with a test that introduces egg to the skin in a controlled environment.

Holiday Foods

For a holiday meal, serve a child beginning to eat solid foods well-cooked vegetables diced a 1/4-inch in size, according to dietitian Cathie Squatrito, Gerber baby food director of medical affairs. Serve him turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. Do not serve a baby foods that contain choking hazards in the ingredients, such as corn, stuffing and desserts with nuts.

Warning The health issues your baby may develop could arise at any time. Monitor her health during and after she eats to ensure she ingests food safely and digests it normally. Familiarize yourself with choking first aid for infants and keep emergency contact numbers for allergic reaction guidance and medical attention available.

Source: livestrong , Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images