Eggs are a good source of high-biological-value protein, comparable to that of milk, according to Doctor Hoang Thi Hang, a nutritionist at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi. They also provide vitamins A, D, E, and B vitamins, as well as iron, zinc, selenium, choline, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain development. While eggs are a healthy food, they can cause allergies and pose some risks to a child's digestive system. Here are some cases where eggs should be avoided or limited.

Children under 6 months old have underdeveloped digestive and immune systems and are not ready for supplementary foods, which can easily cause digestive disorders and allergies. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), babies should be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life.

Children with egg allergies may experience hives, rashes, itchy skin, swelling of the lips and eyelids, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and wheezing after eating eggs. Children under one year old should only eat egg yolks, as egg whites contain proteins like ovomucoid and ovalbumin, which are common allergens.

Children with digestive disorders, bloating, or vomiting should avoid eating many eggs, as this can prolong digestive upset. Parents should wait until their child's condition stabilizes before reintroducing eggs, gradually increasing the amount as tolerated.

Children with liver or kidney disease, food allergies, etc., should limit their egg consumption. Photo: Bui Thuy

Children with liver or kidney disease, food allergies, etc., should limit their egg consumption. Photo: Bui Thuy

Children with chronic liver or kidney disease should limit egg consumption, especially egg yolks, which are high in phosphorus, the precursor trimethylamine N-oxide, and choline, which are not beneficial for chronic kidney disease. The high cholesterol content in egg yolks can also strain the liver if consumed in excess.

Children with lipid metabolism disorders should only eat 1-2 eggs per week. Eggs have a high cholesterol content (about 200 mg per egg).

Doctor Hang advises parents to introduce eggs gradually into their children's diets. For babies 6-7 months old, start with 1/2 an egg yolk per meal, 2-3 times a week, if there are no signs of allergy. Children 8-12 months old can eat a whole egg yolk 3-4 times a week. Children 1-2 years old can eat 3-4 eggs per week, including both the yolk and white. Children 2 years and older can eat 5-7 eggs per week. Parents should ensure eggs are cooked thoroughly and avoid serving them raw due to the risk of Salmonella infection, which can cause diarrhea and abdominal pain. Limit frying eggs in excessive oil, as this can cause indigestion.

Children should eat eggs with vegetables, starches, or grains to ensure a good intake of fiber and vitamins for optimal nutrient absorption. Combining eggs with other protein sources like meat, fish, and milk ensures dietary diversity and meets the needs of a growing child.

When introducing eggs for the first time, parents should start with a small amount, such as 1/4 of an egg yolk, and gradually increase the portion, observing the child for allergic reactions for at least 2-3 days. If any unusual skin, digestive, or respiratory symptoms occur after eating eggs, discontinue feeding and consult a doctor.

Trinh Mai