Incredible Eggs

Introducing Eggs into Baby's Diet

By Donna Smith

It's a timeless question: Which came first, the chicken or the egg? In regards to babies and nutrition, the answer may be simple – the egg. While both the chicken and eggs are packed with protein, in terms of ease of versatility, vitamins and minerals, the egg has a slight advantage. So much so that May is recognized as National Egg Month. But are eggs a good first food for older babies and toddlers?

"Eggs are a great food for new eaters of solid foods after introduction of other iron-rich foods like iron-fortified cereal or pureed meats," says Bridget Swinney, a registered dietitian, nutrition consultant and author of Baby Bites (Meadowbrook, 2007). "They're easy to digest and mild in flavor, making them agreeable to new eaters."

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting four to six months before feeding children any complementary foods – including eggs, Swinney says, due to allergy risks. "If there is a history of egg allergies in your family, it is best to consult with your pediatrician first," she says.

Peggy O'Shea, a Boston-based nutritionist and president of the Massachusetts Dietetic Association, agrees, but recommends waiting until around 12 months of age before introducing eggs into your child's diet. "There are definitely allergy concerns with eggs – eggs are one of the most common food allergens for babies and children," she says. "Most children that are allergic to eggs are allergic to a protein found in the egg white, but allergies to the yolk also do occur. Although many kids may outgrow the allergy by the age of 5, it is important to be careful when introducing eggs to kids."

These are common signs of a food allergy:

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