117 - Gagging vs. Choking: What Every Parent Needs to Know with Nicole from Rhythm First Aid

We’re back for part two with paediatric allergist and immunologist Dr Chaitanya Bodapati (aka Dr Chai) to continue the conversation about allergies—this time focusing on what to do if your child reacts to a food.Allergies are on the rise, and the process of introducing allergens can be anxiety-inducing for many families. But what happens when your child actually has a reaction? Whether it’s mild hives or something more serious like anaphylaxis, the path forward can feel overwhelming and unclear—especially when wait times to see a specialist can be months long.Dr Chaitanya Bodapati is a dual-trained Paediatric Allergy/Immunology Specialist and General Paediatrician. With a holistic approach to care, she draws from her extensive clinical experience—and her personal experience as a mum to a child with multiple food allergies. She is passionate about helping families navigate the often stressful world of childhood allergies with clarity and compassion.In this episode we discuss:The signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction vs a sensitivity or contact rashWhat to do if your child reacts to a foodWhen (and when not) to seek medical helpHow to manage mild, moderate, and severe reactionsWhether you need to stop introducing other allergens after a reactionThe role of skin prick and blood testing—and why they’re often misleadingWhat FPIES is, how it differs from other allergiesWhether your child is likely to outgrow a food allergyWhen an EpiPen is (and isn’t) necessaryWhy the only true way to diagnose an allergy... and so much more!You can connect with Dr Chai via Instagram at @childrensallergyclinic or through her website www.childrensallergyclinic.com.auSome other resources we mention include:ASCIA Allergy Action PlansEp. 118 – Introducing Allergens with Dr Chaitanya BodapatiToday’s episode was brought to you by Part & Parcel. Part & Parcel is our favourite one stop shop for pantry staples – not only do you have the convenience of them being delivered straight to your door (who wants to go shopping with 3 kids!), but they have also curated the most incredible range of organic, ethical and sustainable products so you don’t have to waste your time researching ingredients on labels. They’ve done the work for you. But be warned… you may want to add one of everything to your cart! Thankfully their annual membership allows members to receive extra savings on their shop (so maybe you can add that extra block of chocolate!).You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for $20 off your first order over $99. Visit www.partandparcel.com.au to shop today!Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

Allergies are one of the most common—and nerve-wracking—concerns for families starting solids. From knowing when to introduce allergens to understanding how often they should be offered, it’s no wonder so many parents feel overwhelmed.In this week’s episode of Boob to Food The Podcast, we’re joined by the brilliant (and relatable) Dr. Chaitanya Bodapati, a dual-trained paediatric allergist/immunologist and general paediatrician. Not only does she bring a wealth of clinical experience, but she also shares her perspective as a mum navigating food allergies firsthand.In this episode we discuss:When and how to start introducing allergensWhy timing matters (but also why you don’t need to panic)How often allergens should be offered and in what quantityWhat to do if your baby spits the food out (again!)How to approach allergens when you have dietary restrictions or food avoidance in your familyWhether it’s necessary to introduce every single tree nut individuallyWhat to do if your baby is unwell, or if there’s a family history of allergyWhat reactions to look out for and when to seek help... and so much more!You can connect with Dr Chai via Instagram or through her website www.childrensallergyclinic.com.au.Today’s episode is brought to you by Harris Farm. Harris Farm is a family-owned Aussie business and one of our favourite places to shop - both for everyday staples and those special little extras that make meals feel exciting and extra delicious. They’re passionate about supporting local growers, reducing food waste, and making good food more accessible.If you’re a fan of vibrant produce, pantry staples without the nasties, and delicious snacks your kids will actually eat (without the additives), Harris Farm is the place to go. We especially love their Imperfect Picks range (hello, sustainable savings!) and their Colour by Nature initiative that removes artificial colours from their products.Visit www.harrisfarm.com.au to find your nearest store.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

Is there anything more terrifying than the thought of your baby choking? If you’ve ever hesitated to serve finger foods because you’re scared of choking, you’re not alone.In this week’s episode, we chat with Nicole from Rhythm First Aid, a paediatric emergency nurse and first aid educator, to break down the difference between gagging and choking, how to prevent choking, and—most importantly—what to do in an emergency.For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us…Luka McCabe – founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler to Table, as well as mum of 3Kate Holm – naturopath, nutritionist,  General Manager and Clinical Director of Boob to Food and mum of 3In this episode, we discuss:The key differences between gagging and choking Why gagging is a normal (and protective!) reflexThe physical signs of choking and what to do if it happensCommon choking hazards and how to modify foods safelyPractical ways to reduce choking risks at homeThe step-by-step approach to choking first aidWant to feel confident in first aid for your little one? Nicole and her team at Rhythm First Aid run in-person courses in Victoria and offer online masterclasses to help parents and caregivers feel prepared—not panicked in an emergency.Check out her resources, courses, and more on her WEBSITE or INSTAGRAMHere are some other episodes and resources you might find helpful:PODCAST: Safe food sizes and textures for babiesPODCAST: Choosing the right feeding approach for your babyToday’s episode is brought to you by Sun & Daughter. Finding a mineral sunscreen that actually rubs in and doesn’t leave little ones looking like ghosts? Nearly impossible. That’s why we love Sun & Daughter—it’s nourishing, non-greasy, and no white cast in sight! Their SPF50+ Mineral Sunscreen uses non-nano zinc oxide for broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection and is water-resistant for two hours. Fragrance-free, preservative-free, cruelty-free, vegan, and reef-friendly, it’s safe for sensitive skin too. Plus, Sun & Daughter is proudly Australian-made, with 100% recyclable packaging and ocean clean-up initiatives.Use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 10% off. Head to www.sunanddaughter.com.au to check it out today.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

Welcome back to another catch-up episode of Boob to Food, the Podcast. This week, it’s just Luka and Kate chatting all things life, motherhood, and the unpredictable rollercoaster that is raising little humans. From a catastrophic freezer meltdown to a toddler crashing the family car (yes, really!), plus big reflections on closing the chapter on having more babies, this episode is a little chaotic—just like mum life itself!For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us…Luka McCabe – founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler to Table, as well as mum of 3Kate Holm – naturopath, nutritionist,  General Manager and Clinical Director of Boob to Food and mum of 3In this episode, we cover:Luka’s freezer meltdown – Literally. $1,000 worth of carefully stocked meat and broth… goneWill vs. the family car...2025, the year of the vasectomy!How Kate went in her dance auditionWill's renewed bedtime battlesWhat we are reading and watching... and so much more!Resources Mentioned in This Episode:The Let Them Theory by Mel RobbinsApple Cider Vinegar (Netflix) Ethical Farmers (use the code BOOBTOFOOD)Episode 45 with Lael Stone on Attachment and Separation AnxietyToday’s episode is brought to you by Ergopouch.Every mum knows the stress of figuring out whether their child is warm or cool enough at night—especially when you’re trying to recreate that one magical night of sleep that you’ll probably never experience again. That’s why we love Ergopouch! Their natural fibre, TOG-rated sleepwear takes the guesswork out of dressing your little one for sleep, so you can at least eliminate one source of mum worry. The range covers newborns through to six-year-olds, and their new Breakfast Club collection is absolutely adorable.Use code BOOBTOFOOD for 20% off storewide until 26th March 2025 at www.ergopouch.com.au - excluding: Lyra Cot, Deluxe Mattress, Gift Cards, Gift Packs, Multibuys and Sale items.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

When it comes to introducing your little one to cup drinking, there’s no shortage of opinions—especially about sippy cups. Are they bad for oral development? Will they delay speech? Should you skip straight to an open cup?To clear up the confusion, we’re joined by Emily Tyler, a speech pathologist (and mum of twins!) who has recently joined the Boob to Food team. With over a decade of experience supporting children in their feeding journeys, Emily is here to break down everything parents need to know about cup drinking—what’s best, what’s unnecessary, and how to make the transition easier for your little one.In This Episode We Cover:The role of speech pathologists in feedingSippy cups and whether the fear around them justified?The best first cup for your baby – open cup, straw cup, or something else?Practical strategies to help your baby learn to drink from a cup.Troubleshooting common challenges like spitting water, struggling with a straw, or making a mess.When to transition away from bottles... and so much more!Whether you’re just getting started or feeling stuck in the transition, this episode is packed with evidence-based insights to help you feel confident about your baby’s cup-drinking journey.Resources Mentioned:Boob to Food Starting Solids Equipment Guide – our favourite cups, bibs, and everything else to make mealtimes easier.More on cup drinking – our in-depth blog post covering all things cup and straw drinking.Today’s episode is brought to you by BioFirst. Bio-First is an Australian Family brand, who wanted better options for their family and to help as many people as possible. All products are manufactured locally within Australia. Their products are genuinely natural with no nasties like phthalates, petrochemicals, synthetics or chemical solvents, as well as being free of irritants and designed for little, hypersensitive skin and dermatologist certifiedWhether it’s pregnancy, postpartum, or just that time of the month, breakouts always seem to pop up when you least expect them. That’s why we’re loving BioFirst’s new Blemish Ban Range—a completely natural, pregnancy-safe solution designed to calm, clear, and soothe hormonal breakouts without irritation.The range includes a Blemish Ban Toner and Blemish Ban Gel, formulated with powerful ingredients like manuka honey, tea tree, and eucalyptus myrtle to help reduce redness, balance oil production, and speed up healing—without the harsh chemicals.You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 15% OFF the entire range. Visit www.bio-first.com.auFollow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

When it comes to feeding little ones after 12 months, one of the most common questions we get is: Does my child need cow’s milk or toddler formula? With so much conflicting advice from health professionals, formula companies, and well-meaning family members, it can feel overwhelming to know what’s truly best for your child.In this episode, Luka and Kate break it all down—what the recommendations actually are, why milk drinks aren’t necessary for toddlers, and how to ensure your little one is getting the nutrition they need as they transition to a whole food diet.For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us…Luka McCabe – founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler to Table, as well as mum of 3Kate Holm – naturopath, nutritionist,  General Manager and Clinical Director of Boob to Food and mum of 3In this episode, we cover:Do toddlers need to ‘wean onto’ another milk drink after 12 months?Cow’s milk as a drink – is it necessary?The potential downsides of too much milk consumption Toddler formula and why we don’t recommend it Calcium-rich foods beyond dairy … and so much more!Resources MentionedOur books Milk to Meals and Toddler to TableEpisode 77 with Dr. Staci Whitman – On baby and toddler dental healthEpisode 86 all about fussy toddlers – Learn how to encourage variety and reduce stress around foodBlog: Swaps on a Dairy Free Diet – Alternatives to dairy for meeting calcium needsToday's Episode is brought to you by Chief Nutrition. At Boob to Food, we’re always looking for ways to pack in extra nutrition for ourselves and our little ones—especially when it comes to protein. That’s why we love Chief Nutrition’s Collagen Powder. It’s a high-quality protein source that’s flavourless (or flavoured if you prefer!) and so easy to mix into smoothies, yogurt, or even baked goods for a nutrient boost. Bonus that it tastes like dessert without the added sugar so even the fussiest of toddlers will enjoy it too.If you’d like to try it for yourself (or sneak some extra protein into your toddler’s diet), you can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 15% off sitewide at wearechief.com.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

When it comes to starting solids, one of the biggest concerns for parents is constipation. If you’ve ever been told that constipation is ‘normal’ for babies, we’re here to set the record straight—it’s common, but it’s not normal.In this episode, Luka and Kate dive deep into constipation: what causes it, why it happens around the time of starting solids, and what you can do to support your little one. From dietary changes and hydration to gut health and possible food sensitivities, we’re covering it all to help your baby get back to comfortable, regular bowel movements (without relying on prunes forever!).For those tuning in for the first time, a little about us…Luka McCabe – founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler to Table, and mum of 3Kate Holm – naturopath, nutritionist, General Manager and Clinical Director of Boob to Food, and mum of 3In this episode, we cover:What actually defines constipation in babies and toddlersThe biggest causes of constipation when starting solidsWhy some babies are more prone to constipation than othersHow hydration and milk feeds impact gut healthThe role of fibre (and why too much or too little can be a problem)Foods that can help or hinder digestionWhy laxatives shouldn’t be the first solution (and what to do instead)The link between gut health, allergies, and constipation…and so much more!Resources Mentioned:Constipation Masterclass – A deep dive into gut health, constipation causes, and practical solutionsBoob to Food Online Clinic – Work with our team of experts for tailored advice and supportBoob to Food Blog – Understanding Constipation – Our evidence-based guide to managing constipation in babies and toddlersMilk to Meals – Our starting solids book, packed with recipes and nutritional guidanceToday’s episode is brought to you by Cell Squared. We often talk about Cell Squared and our love for their whole food, nutrient-dense products when it comes to supporting babies and mums. But did you know they also have an incredible Men’s Innate Energy blend? This beef multi-organ supplement (including liver, spleen, and kidney) is formulated specifically to support men’s energy, vitality, and reproductive health—perfect for the dads in your life. Packed with B vitamins, iron, selenium, and more, it’s an easy way to boost nutrition.You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 10% off storewide. Visit Cell Squared to shop today.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

In this episode of Boob to Food the Podcast, Luka and Kate continue the starting solids journey, diving into what to expect as your baby approaches the 9–12 month mark. By now, you’ve probably navigated the messy beginnings, introduced some allergens, and discovered what your baby loves (and throws on the floor!). But what comes next?We’ll cover how to transition from those early purees to family meals, when to introduce more structured mealtimes, and how to handle the inevitable phases of food refusal. Spoiler: it’s all normal, and you’re doing great!For those tuning in for the first time, a little about us…Luka McCabe – founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler to Table, and mum of 3Kate Holm – naturopath, nutritionist, General Manager and Clinical Director of Boob to Food, and mum of 3In this episode, we cover:The goal of transitioning to family meals by 12 monthsWhen and how to increase to three meals a day (without the overwhelm)The role of snacks (hint: milk counts!)Moving beyond purees: why finger foods matter and how to introduce them safelyManaging food refusal, throwing, and ‘fussy’ eating phasesIntroducing allergens—early, often, and stress-freeFoods to avoid before 12 months (yes, still no honey!)Tips for eating out with your baby without the stress… and so much more!If you’re feeling unsure about your baby’s feeding journey or facing challenges, don’t forget that our online clinic is here to support you with personalised advice and guidance.Resources Mentioned:Milk to Meals – Our starting solids book packed with recipes and evidence-based guidanceToddler to Table – Your go-to resource for navigating toddler mealtimesBlog: Picky vs Problem EatersBlog: The Ultimate Guide to Sodium for BabiesEpisode: Highchairs 101: Safety, Setup, and What to Look ForToday’s episode is brought to you by Koala Eco. Koala Eco creates natural, non-toxic cleaning products that are as kind to your home as they are to the planet. We’re obsessed with their new dishwashing powder—free from harsh chemicals and fragranced with lemon myrtle and mandarin essential oils. It’s safe for your family, effective on messes, and even gentle on baby’s silicone plates.You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 25% off all Koala Eco products. Visit koala.eco to fill your home with products you’ll love.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

When it comes to starting solids, one of the most important pieces of equipment is the high chair. With so many options on the market, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one - especially when it comes to posture, safety, and mealtime success. In this episode, Luka and Kate are joined by our paediatric occupational therapist Rachael Smith to break down exactly what to look for in a high chair and why getting it right from the start can set your baby up for a positive feeding journey.For those who don’t know Rach, she is a mum to her daughter Olive and son Teddy, a Paediatric Occupational Therapist, and the owner of Therapy Time, a private practice based in Brisbane.Even before having her own family, she has always been passionate about taking a big picture approach to child development. Rach strongly believes that what we eat has a huge impact on everything and sees this everyday in her clinical practice (and at home).In this episode, we cover:Why posture and support matter for safe swallowing and independent eatingThe 90-90-90 rule and how to set up your high chair for successThe importance of footrests (and what to do if your high chair doesn’t have one)Safety features to look for when choosing a high chairOur top high chair recommendations, from investment options to budget-friendly picks… and so much more!If you’re in the market for a high chair or just want to make sure your little one is set up for mealtime success, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert insights.Resources Mentioned:Our equipment guide Blog: All you need to know about high chairsEpisode 28 - All about food throwing and high chair refusalToday’s episode was brought to you by Nourish’d, a game-changer for busy mums looking to enjoy healthy, delicious meals without the stress of cooking. Nourish’d delivers fresh, chef-prepared meals straight to your door, with a focus on whole, nutrient-rich ingredients and no hidden nasties. Whether you’re navigating the chaos of motherhood, juggling mealtimes, or just need a break, Nourish’d makes it easy to nourish yourself and your family while saving precious time.As a special offer for our listeners, first-time customers can use the code BOOBTOFOOD to get $15 off their first Nourish’d order. It’s the perfect way to take something off your plate (literally!) and focus on what matters most. Visit nourishd.com.au to explore their menu and experience the convenience for yourself!Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

We’re back with our first non-educational episode of the year, and it’s a good one! After months of keeping things strictly informative, we decided it was time for a catch-up chat—because let’s be honest, sometimes we all just need a bit of lighthearted chaos.So, what have we been up to over the summer holidays? Well, Luka went camping (cue the inevitable camping curse 😬), Kate has been keeping a few things from Luka, and we chat about all the things—turning 40, surviving school holidays, Christmas feasts, and what’s next for the year ahead.For those who are new here, a little about us…Luka McCabe – founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler to Table, and mum of 3Kate Holm – naturopath, nutritionist, General Manager and Clinical Director of Boob to Food, and mum of 3If you’re in the mood for some laughs, a little bit of oversharing, and a reminder that nobody really has it all together, this one’s for you. Also, let us know if you would like to hear more of these episodes... or if we don't hear from anyone, we will just fade off into the distance and stick to the educational content!Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]