#asktheexpert ..hello . goodmorning.my baby is 10.month old and he don't drink cow milk from bottle ...and he take too much time to finish his meal too.pleass suggest any way to make hime drink and eat properly.

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Accepted Answer

If your 10-month-old baby is refusing to eat, it can be concerning, but there are several strategies you can try to encourage feeding. Keep in mind that a temporary decrease in appetite is not uncommon as babies go through various developmental stages. Here are some tips:

1. **Offer a Variety of Foods:**
   - Introduce a variety of foods with different tastes and textures. Babies may become bored with the same foods, so diversifying their diet can make meals more interesting.

2. **Let Your Baby Feed Themselves:**
   - Encourage self-feeding by providing finger foods. This can enhance the sensory experience and foster independence.

3. **Be Mindful of Timing:**
   - Pay attention to your baby's hunger cues and offer meals and snacks when they are most receptive. Avoid forcing food when your baby is not interested.

4. **Create a Positive Environment:**
   - Make mealtimes enjoyable. Sit together as a family, use colorful utensils and plates, and maintain a positive atmosphere.

5. **Limit Distractions:**
   - Minimize distractions during meals. Turn off the TV and avoid electronic devices to help your baby focus on eating.

6. **Adjust Food Temperature:**
   - Ensure that the food is served at an appropriate temperature. Babies may prefer warm or room temperature food.

7. **Experiment with Textures:**
   - Introduce different textures, from purees to soft chunks, to find what your baby prefers. Some babies may start showing a preference for more textured foods as they develop.

8. **Offer Small, Frequent Meals:**
   - Instead of large meals, offer small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day. This approach may be more manageable for your baby.

9. **Model Healthy Eating:**
   - Eat together as a family and be a positive role model for healthy eating habits. Babies often imitate what they see.

10. **Consult with a Pediatrician:**
    - If your baby's refusal to eat persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult with your pediatrician. There could be underlying issues that need attention.

Remember that feeding preferences can vary among babies, and it's important to be patient and responsive to your baby's cues. If you have ongoing concerns about your baby's nutrition or eating habits, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is advisable.