allergys

[nikkie]

:) hi im new to all this so not sure what to put i have a 4 month old who has just had a allergy test and been told he has a cows milk intolerance and a sugar intolerance i have been going to a allergy group that are really helpfull about what food to buy but in december it will be his 1st birthday and not sure about a cake to give him i know he wont remember it but you do take it for granted that you can just get a birthday cake any tips on what i could do ?? thanks x

[Pam]

Hi Nikkie

Are there any type of sugars or sweeteners that he can have or do you have to avoid them all? It is hard enough buying dairy free products without added complications of further allergies.

I usually bake my own cakes and decorate with a suitable covering. This way I have control of the ingredients I use and can substitute any milk based ingredients with a safe alternative (eg Pure margarine, soya milk, etc.) Maybe you could still do this if you were able to use artificial sweetener (some have a sugar like appearance). Alternatively, I would look for diabetic recipes to see if there is anything suitable (maybe you could sweeten with fruit?) and adapt the recipe to use dairy free spread instead of butter.

Ask to be referred to a dietitian if you aren't already booked to see one as they should be able to tell you exactly what he can and can't have, and might even be able to point you in the right direction to find something.

For his first birthday he really will not be bothered about a cake, and there is a chance that his problem may have cleared up before then. You will also be wiser and more aware of the foods that are suitable so it will be less of a nightmare for you. Whilst he is so young, he will not miss what he has never had, this only becomes a problem if he is mixing with other children who are eating different foods.

I hope you get lots of support, it can be very daunting at first, but it does get easier - honest!