#asktheexpert hello mam ..my 9 month old baby does not eat food ... what should I do to make hin eat...?

1 Answer

POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy11 months ago

A. Encouraging a 9-month-old baby to eat can sometimes be challenging. Here are some strategies you can try: 1. Variety of Foods: Introduce a variety of textures and flavors. Offer purees, mashed foods, and small soft pieces of finger foods. Some examples include ripe bananas, steamed carrots, sweet potatoes, or soft cooked pasta. 2. Meal Routine: Establish a consistent mealtime routine. Offering meals at the same time each day can help create a sense of familiarity. 3. Involve Them: Let your baby explore food with their hands. This can make mealtime more engaging and fun. 4. Model Eating: Eat together as a family. Babies learn by watching, so seeing others enjoy food may encourage them to try it. 5. Stay Calm: Avoid pressure or force-feeding, as it can create negative associations with eating. Keep the atmosphere relaxed. 6. Experiment with Temperature: Some babies prefer their food warm, while others like it cool. Try different temperatures to see what your baby prefers. 7. Healthy Dips: Offer healthy dips, like yogurt or hummus, to make vegetables or breadsticks more appealing. 8. Limit Snacks: Ensure your baby is not filling up on milk or snacks before mealtime. Offer milk after meals if needed. 9. Patience is Key: It may take multiple attempts before your baby accepts new foods. Keep offering them without pressure. 10. Check for Teething: If your baby is teething, it might cause discomfort that affects their appetite. If you suspect this is the case, try offering chilled teething toys or foods. If your baby continues to refuse food or shows signs of weight loss or growth concerns, consider consulting a pediatrician for personalized advice and support.