• Babies have trouble digesting certain foods.baby image by Diane Stamatelatos from Fotolia.com
  
  Along with becoming a parent comes the responsibility of making good choices for your child. One of the most important choices when it comes to your baby is what to feed him or, more importantly, what not to feed him. Certain foods can cause great harm to babies, and some can even prove fatal. It is important for parents to talk to their family pediatrician about when to introduce babies to certain foods, because each child is different. Family history can help a doctor determine what foods might cause an adverse reaction in babies.
  
  

Choking Hazards

• According to Consumer Reports, food is the number one choking hazard for children, especially in those younger than five. There are various foods that should not be given to children under this age including grapes, raw carrots, raw apples, celery, raisins, potato chips, popcorn, pretzels, hot dogs, sausages, frozen bananas, gum, gummy bears, peanut butter, cheese, caramel, fruit leather, spaghetti and hard foods like chicken, steak and other meat that has bones in it.
  
  

Foods that Can Cause Severe Reactions

• Certain foods should be avoided until a baby reaches a certain age. Peanuts, strawberries and shellfish can bring about a life-threatening allergic reaction. These foods should not be given to children until they are at least two years old. Citrus fruits are acidic and should not be given to babies under 12 months to avoid an upset stomach. Avoid giving cow's milk to babies under one year of age, as their stomachs can't properly digest it. Broccoli and beans are gassy foods, and should not be given to infants younger than 6 months. Honey can cause botulism in children younger than one.
  
  

Unhealthy Foods

• Some foods don't cause allergies or severe reactions, but they are just altogether unhealthy and shouldn't be given to children. Adding extra sugar and salt to a baby's food isn't necessary, so avoid these substances when preparing your baby's meals. Never offer your baby deep-fried food or fast food. Some parents may be tempted to give their babies french fries because they're soft and easy to eat, but all that grease isn't good for infants. Babies should never be given soft drinks in their bottles. These sugary drinks often contain caffeine and offer no nutritional value whatsoever.