As a nutritionist with a focus on pediatric nutrition, I'm often asked about the introduction of various foods into a baby's diet. When it comes to lemon juice, it's a topic that requires careful consideration due to the unique digestive and immune systems of infants.

Firstly, it's important to understand the developmental stage of a baby's digestive system. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract of infants, particularly those under the age of 12 months, is still maturing. This means that they may not be ready to handle the acidity and potential allergens found in certain foods, including citrus fruits like lemons.

The acidity of lemon juice is due to the presence of citric acid, which can be quite strong. This high acidity level can potentially cause discomfort for a baby's sensitive stomach lining, leading to symptoms like gastric upset. In some cases, it can even lead to more severe conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other issues.

Moreover, the skin of infants is incredibly delicate. The citric acid in lemon juice can cause skin irritation, leading to rashes not just around the mouth and lips but also potentially leading to diaper rashes if the acidic residue comes into contact with the baby's skin. This is particularly concerning given that babies spend a significant amount of time in close contact with their diapers.

Additionally, citrus fruits are known to be common allergens. Introducing lemon juice to a baby's diet could potentially trigger an allergic reaction, which can range from mild symptoms like itching and hives to more severe reactions like difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends introducing solid foods to babies starting at around 6 months of age. However, they also caution against introducing potentially allergenic foods too early. It's generally advised to start with single-ingredient purees and gradually introduce new foods, one at a time, to monitor for any allergic reactions.

Given the potential risks associated with lemon juice, it's typically not recommended to introduce it into a baby's diet until they are at least 12 months old. Even then, it should be done with caution, starting with a very small amount to see how the baby reacts before gradually increasing the quantity.

In conclusion, while lemon juice can add a refreshing tang to many dishes, it's not suitable for babies under 12 months due to its high acidity and potential to cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. As a nutritionist, I would advise parents to err on the side of caution and wait until their baby is at least a year old before considering the introduction of lemon juice into their diet.

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