#asktheexper my baby weight 11 kg not eating properly please suggest me what type of food i shall give her?

Question

Accepted Answer

For a 15-month-old baby who weighs 11 kg and is not eating properly, offering a variety of nutritious and appealing foods can help improve their appetite and ensure they receive essential nutrients. Here are some suggestions:

### **1. Nutrient-Dense Foods**

1. **Fruits**:
   - **Soft Fruits**: Bananas, applesauce, and ripe pears are easy to digest.
   - **Fruit Purees**: Blend fruits like mango, peach, or berries for a tasty treat.

2. **Vegetables**:
   - **Cooked and Mashed**: Carrots, sweet potatoes, peas, and butternut squash are good options.
   - **Vegetable Purees**: Blend vegetables into smooth purees or add them to soups.

3. **Proteins**:
   - **Soft Meats**: Chicken, turkey, or fish, cooked until tender and finely chopped.
   - **Beans and Lentils**: Mashed or pureed for a protein-rich option.
   - **Eggs**: Scrambled, hard-boiled, or in a small omelet.

4. **Grains**:
   - **Oatmeal**: Cooked with milk or water, and mixed with fruits.
   - **Rice and Pasta**: Soft, well-cooked, and mixed with vegetables or proteins.

5. **Dairy**:
   - **Yogurt**: Plain or flavored with fruit, high in calcium and probiotics.
   - **Cheese**: Soft cheeses or cottage cheese in small amounts.

### **2. Tips for Improving Appetite**

1. **Variety and Presentation**: Offer a variety of foods and present them in an appealing way. Use colorful plates and cut food into fun shapes.

2. **Small, Frequent Meals**: Provide smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of large portions.

3. **Finger Foods**: Offer easy-to-eat finger foods like small pieces of fruit, soft cooked vegetables, or cheese cubes.

4. **Involvement**: Let your child help with simple meal preparation or pick out fruits and vegetables.

5. **Encourage Self-Feeding**: Allow your baby to explore self-feeding, which can sometimes increase their interest in eating.

6. **Healthy Snacks**: Provide healthy snacks between meals, such as yogurt, fruit slices, or whole grain crackers.

### **3. Addressing Eating Issues**

1. **Check for Medical Concerns**: If your baby consistently refuses food, consult with your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues or food sensitivities.

2. **Create a Routine**: Establish regular meal and snack times to help your baby develop a routine and build appetite.

### **4. Hydration**

- Ensure your baby is drinking enough fluids throughout the day. Water and milk are good choices, but avoid giving too much milk to prevent filling up on liquids instead of solid food.

By incorporating these tips and providing a variety of nutrient-rich foods, you can help encourage better eating habits and ensure your baby is getting the nutrition they need for healthy growth and development.