Why can't my 16 month old have peanut butter?

Question

I know alot of people who have kids under the age of 2 who have eaten peanut butter but my son's dr told us that toddlers can't have peanut butter until they're 3. I'm confused.

Answer 1

Because a lot of people are allergic to peanuts and peanut butter.

So just in case- they set the age bar.

At 3, their immune systems are more developed and allergic reaction will be easier to treat.

Answer 2

it is not only for allergies but for choking also. even if it's not a solid food.

anyway my son is 17 months old and eats peanut butter because he had an allergy test.

but you know people can develop an allergy they never had. so there will always be risks.

Answer 3

does your son have allergy issues now? Maybe the doctor is trying to avoid a reaction. My daughter is 12 months and the doctor told me that its ok for them to have PB over 1

Answer 4

Reactions to peanut allergy can be very severe and life-threatening.  Your doctor wants you to wait until his body is old enough to better handle a reaction should it happen.  Additionally, waiting later to introduce peanuts increases the liklihood that an allergic child will outgrow the allergy.

Answer 5

possiblities of allergies.

its more of an advice and precaution.

if you want to give it to him, put a little on a cracker and see if he's okay.

my son started eating 1/2 of pb and jelly sandwiches at 2. its easy to make.

Answer 6

if you are comfortable with trying to give it to him, go ahead. I think my oldest was eating PBandJ at about 11-12 months old with no problem. I would start with PB crackers or a thin layer on a sandwich. If you see ANY signs that he could be having an allergic reaction take him to the ER so they can prevent any further reactions.

some doctors like to err on the side of caution with things like PB allergies. Mine is pretty relaxed and let's me go with my gut unless it is a serious issue.

Answer 7

The reason is because it's too thick & gooey & he could choke. I don't know about waiting til age 3, that seems excessive assuming he's developmentally on track with his motor skills & everything. I'd say try a cracker spread with a thin layer pf PB & keep a cup of milk or water close by to wash it down.  

Answer 8

its too thick. you can choke on it. honey too.