Is it necessary to give children immunoglobulin to promote appetite?
Hello: My baby is currently over three months old.
At birth, the IgE levels were higher.
For the past five days, their appetite has decreased, and they often do not finish their milk (HA1).
I'm wondering if I should consider adding some nutritional supplements (Morinaga immunoglobulin)? Also, since their allergy index is relatively high, can I introduce rice flour after four months? Thank you!
Jun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/31
Dr. Zhao Yongkang reply Pediatrics
Dear Ms.
Jun,
I apologize for the delay due to work commitments.
Please forgive me.
1.
For children's nutritional supplements, if there is no history of allergies, it is recommended to start adding them after four months of age.
Some immunoglobulins do not provide significant benefits; as long as the child is consuming regular formula (whether standard or hydrolyzed protein), it should be sufficient.
2.
Generally, high IgE levels in umbilical cord blood need to be assessed in conjunction with whether the child's parents have a history of allergies and whether the child exhibits any allergic skin conditions, such as eczema, after birth.
For children with a history of allergies, it is advisable to introduce complementary foods only after they reach six months of age.
Typically, wheat products can be introduced after the child turns one year old.
Thank you for your letter.
Wishing you peace,
Dr.
Zhao Yongkang
Director, Pediatric Department
Hsinchu Hospital
Reply Date: 2004/05/31
More Info
When it comes to supplementing a baby's diet, especially in the context of decreased appetite and elevated IgE levels, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and informed guidance. Your baby, being just over three months old, is still in a critical stage of development where nutrition plays a vital role in their growth and immune system development.
Firstly, regarding the use of immunoglobulin supplements, such as the one you mentioned (森永免疫球蛋白), it is important to note that while some parents may find anecdotal success stories, the scientific evidence supporting the routine use of immunoglobulin supplements in infants is limited. Immunoglobulins are proteins that play a crucial role in the immune response, but they are not a substitute for a balanced diet. In most cases, if your baby is consuming an appropriate formula (like HA1, which is a hypoallergenic formula), they should be receiving adequate nutrition without the need for additional supplements.
The decrease in appetite you are observing could be due to various factors, including growth spurts, teething, or even mild illnesses. It is not uncommon for infants to have fluctuations in their feeding patterns. If your baby is otherwise healthy, gaining weight appropriately, and meeting developmental milestones, this temporary decrease in appetite may not be a cause for concern. However, if the lack of appetite persists or is accompanied by other symptoms (like lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea), it is crucial to consult your pediatrician.
As for introducing solid foods, the general recommendation is to wait until around six months of age before introducing complementary foods. However, if your baby is not showing signs of allergies and is developmentally ready, you may consider introducing rice cereal (米精) around four months. This should be done cautiously, starting with small amounts and observing for any allergic reactions. Given your baby's elevated IgE levels, it is particularly important to monitor for any signs of food allergies when introducing new foods.
In summary, while it may be tempting to supplement your baby's diet with immunoglobulin or other nutritional products, it is best to consult with your pediatrician or a pediatric nutritionist first. They can provide tailored advice based on your baby's specific health needs and family history of allergies. Maintaining a balanced diet, monitoring your baby's growth, and ensuring they are comfortable and healthy are the most important aspects of their nutrition at this stage.
Similar Q&A
Boosting Your Baby's Immunity: Tips for Parents of Infants
Hello Dr. Chang... My baby is already eight months old. What methods can enhance his immune system? Currently, I am giving him child-specific probiotics, calcium powder, and vitamins. Do I need to supplement with additional multivitamins? My baby has been experiencing intermitten...
Dr. Zhang Yingwen reply Pediatrics
1. To enhance immunity, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet (breast milk, natural foods), a hygienic environment (reducing exposure to pathogens), moderate exercise, and a healthy, happy mindset. Adding child-specific nutritional supplements such as calcium powder and vit...[Read More] Boosting Your Baby's Immunity: Tips for Parents of Infants
Nutritional Guidance for 14-Month-Olds: What to Feed Your Baby
Hello. My baby is now over 14 months old. When she was 2 to 3 months old, we discovered she had a hemangioma. We previously treated it with corticosteroids. Later, when she turned one, the doctor said she could stop taking the medication since it would gradually improve after the...
Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition
Dear Xiao Yu, Hello! Regarding nutrition during early childhood, the Food Information Network of the Department of Health provides very rich and detailed information for reference (http://food.doh.gov.tw/children/children/infant/02h.htm). As for sweating during sleep, you may wa...[Read More] Nutritional Guidance for 14-Month-Olds: What to Feed Your Baby
Guidance for Parents: Addressing Pediatric Weight Concerns
Hello, Dr. Chang. My baby boy was born at 37 weeks with a weight of only 1885 grams. When I asked the doctor why he was so underweight, the doctor said it was due to a tight and tangled umbilical cord, which resulted in him not receiving adequate nutrients in the womb. After birt...
Dr. Zhang Yingwen reply Pediatrics
The baby is one year and six months old and weighs only eight kilograms, which is indeed underweight and indicates poor growth. It is necessary to consult specialists in four areas for evaluation: pediatric neurology, pediatric endocrinology, pediatric gastroenterology, and pedia...[Read More] Guidance for Parents: Addressing Pediatric Weight Concerns
Improving Appetite in Picky Eaters: Tips for Parents of Young Children
My daughter is three and a half years old and weighs about 13.7 kg. She stopped drinking milk around the age of two and tends to be picky with her food, particularly disliking vegetables, which she selectively eats. Her appetite for breakfast is poor; she only wants to eat sweet ...
Dr. Zhang Wenwang reply Pediatrics
It is recommended to consult a pediatric gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation and examination.[Read More] Improving Appetite in Picky Eaters: Tips for Parents of Young Children
Related FAQ
(Pediatrics)
Complementary Foods(Pediatrics)
Infant Nutrition(Nutrition)
Health Supplements(Pediatrics)
Gastrointestinal(Pediatrics)
Infant Formula(Pediatrics)
Pediatric Allergies(Pediatrics)
Vaccination(Pediatrics)
Tongue(Pediatrics)
Thalassemia(Pediatrics)