Bird’s nest, ginseng, pearl powder for your baby?
Should you introduce bird’s nest soup to your little baby? How about ginseng and pearl powder? The answer is: no, no, no. Here’s why. 1. BIRD’S NEST SOUP Pricey as it may be, bird’s nest soup is an allergenic food that can cause symptoms such as vomiting, rashes and abdominal pains. This is especially so if other family members are allergic to the protein found in it. That’s why Charlotte Lin, dietician at National University Hospital, suggests introducing this Chinese delicacy to your child only after he turns one. 2. GINSENG The doting grandma may want to brew double-boiled ginseng soup for the family, but this is one herb you’ll want your baby to steer clear of, unless advised otherwise by a physician. “Panax ginseng is unsafe for kids and can cause infant death as a result of intoxication,” cautions Charlotte. Senior physician Zhou Yan from Eu Yan Sang explains: “Some physicians may advise against eating particular types of ginseng when the baby suffers...