I can’t talk about managing eczema without mentioning the link between eczema and food allergies. Some toddlers with eczema will be allergic to some foods. The most common foods which trigger eczema symptoms in toddlers are cows’ milk, eggs, soya, wheat, fish and nuts. This doesn’t mean the food causes eczema, just that it is likely your toddler may also have a food allergy which can in some cases make eczema symptoms worse. In our family my eldest toddler has a food allergy to yeast – so no vegemite in our house! My younger toddler has food allergies to pineapple and eggs.

Each of my toddlers react differently to their food allergies. The eldest has a delayed food allergy – after about 6 hours of eating the food he is allergic to, his itching and eczema worsens. Whereas the youngest experiences immediate food allergies and her symptoms are more obvious. Her symptoms usually occur within two hours of eating the food she is allergic to – what we see is redness, swelling and irritation around her mouth and a little red lumps which form a rash on her skin (uticaria).

Testing for food allergies

I had both of my toddlers tested for food allergies and more information about allergy testing can be found here. What I didn’t know was that the timing of allergy testing is really important. Testing works best when eczema is present within two hours of eating the food. Of course any medical tests should be interpreted by medical specialist so that no foods are eliminated from your toddler’s diet when they don’t need to be.

Do probiotics work for eczema?

I have just started mixing probiotics into both my toddlers milk to help manage their eczema. There is some evidence to say that probiotics help eczema and I’m willing to give it a go. I will keep you updated if there are any improvements.

Avoiding foods which trigger eczema

Avoiding foods which may trigger eczema makes up part of our eczema management plan along with our itchy baby bath soak every night. I’m looking forward to sharing what makes up our eczema management plan with you next time.

This blog post is brought to you and your baby with love by Julia and the Itchy Baby Co.team x

Disclaimer: Information provided is of a general nature only, and you should always consult your medical professional.