#asktheexperts Hello sir, which is the best way to introduce egg for the first time to my 9months 28days old baby

Question

Accepted Answer

Introducing eggs to your 9-month-old baby can be done safely and effectively by following these steps:

### 1. **Start with Well-Cooked Egg Yolk**
- **Why**: Egg yolk is often recommended to start with because it’s less likely to cause an allergic reaction compared to the egg white.
- **Preparation**: Hard-boil the egg and remove the yolk. Mash or puree the yolk with a little water, breast milk, or formula to achieve a smooth consistency.

### 2. **Introduce Gradually**
- **Start Small**: Begin with a small amount of egg yolk (about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon).
- **Observe**: Watch for any signs of allergies such as rash, swelling, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop offering eggs and consult your pediatrician.

### 3. **Move to Whole Egg**
- **Once Tolerated**: If your baby tolerates egg yolk well, you can introduce the egg white. Start with well-cooked scrambled eggs or an omelet cut into small pieces.
- **Preparation**: Ensure the egg is fully cooked to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Avoid runny or undercooked eggs.

### 4. **Mix with Other Foods**
- **Incorporate**: Mix small amounts of well-cooked egg with other familiar foods your baby enjoys, such as mashed vegetables or rice. This can help with acceptance and provide variety.

### 5. **Watch for Reactions**
- **Monitor**: After introducing eggs, monitor your baby for any potential allergic reactions. If your baby shows signs of an allergy or intolerance, discontinue eggs and consult your pediatrician.

### 6. **Frequency**
- **Gradual Introduction**: Introduce eggs once a day or every other day, and observe how your baby reacts. This helps ensure that any reaction can be promptly identified.

### Example Introduction:
1. **Day 1**: Offer 1/4 teaspoon of mashed, well-cooked egg yolk.
2. **Day 2-3**: If no adverse reactions, increase to 1/2 teaspoon.
3. **Day 4-7**: Introduce small amounts of well-cooked, finely chopped whole egg.

### Note:
- **Egg Allergy**: Egg allergies are common but often outgrown. If you have a family history of allergies or your baby has had previous reactions to foods, discuss the introduction of eggs with your pediatrician first.

This gradual approach helps ensure a safe introduction to eggs and allows you to monitor for any potential allergies or sensitivities.