When your baby starts to eat finger foods, be sure to follow these guidelines:
- Never leave your baby. Always stay close by when your baby is eating finger foods. Some foods still may cause him difficulty and could pose a choking hazard. It’s a good idea to learn how to intervene appropriately if your baby chokes; ask your doctor to demonstrate what to do. Or, sign up for a first-aid class at your local hospital.
- Make sure baby doesn’t bite off more than he can chew. Cut his food into small pieces rather than giving him a large piece.
- Size counts. Avoid feeding foods that could be swallowed whole, such as the foods listed on the bottom.
- No eating in cars. Avoid giving your baby finger food in the car.
Chewable foods: Some foods can cause choking in infants under a year old. Avoid giving your baby:
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Raw vegetables, such as carrot and celery sticks
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Grapes, cherries, and berries
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Raisins
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Hot-dog or other meat chunks
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Any nuts, such as peanuts, almonds, and cashews
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Popcorn
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Hard candy, even suckers
These foods need to be chewed; if they aren’t, they could be swallowed whole and lodge in baby’s throat.
Foods that may cause allergic reaction
Some foods can cause an allergic reaction in babies. They include:
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Chocolate
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Beans
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Corn
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Nuts
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Peanut butter
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Egg whites
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Seafood
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Citrus fruits and juices
Avoid these foods for baby’s first year, especially if there’s a history of allergies.