#asktheexpert Hello Sir, Good Morning,
My child is not eating food nicely and because of that he is very lean and thin. I tried many tastes but it works only for few days. Please suggest. Thank you

Question

Accepted Answer

If your 11-month-old is not eating food properly, it can be concerning but is relatively common as children go through phases of picky eating. Here are some tips to encourage better eating habits:

1. **Offer a Variety of Foods:**
   - Introduce a diverse range of foods to provide various tastes and textures. This can make mealtime more interesting for your baby.

2. **Finger Foods:**
   - Offer age-appropriate finger foods that your baby can explore and self-feed. This encourages independence and may make eating more enjoyable.

3. **Be Patient and Responsive:**
   - Avoid pressuring your baby to eat or making mealtime stressful. Be patient, responsive, and attentive to your baby's hunger cues.

4. **Maintain a Routine:**
   - Stick to a consistent feeding schedule and create a positive eating environment. Mealtime routines can help your baby associate food with a pleasant experience.

5. **Model Healthy Eating:**
   - Children often imitate their parents. Eat meals together as a family, and model healthy eating habits.

6. **Explore Food Preferences:**
   - Pay attention to your baby's likes and dislikes. Offer more of the foods they enjoy while gradually introducing new ones.

7. **Textures and Consistency:**
   - Experiment with different textures and consistencies. Some babies prefer mashed foods, while others like more solid options.

8. **Limit Distractions:**
   - Minimize distractions during meals. Turn off screens and create a calm environment to help your baby focus on eating.

9. **Encourage Self-Feeding:**
   - Allow your baby to self-feed using a spoon or finger foods. This can enhance their motor skills and make meals more enjoyable.

10. **Consult with a Pediatrician:**
    - If you have persistent concerns about your baby's eating habits or if there are significant changes in weight or behavior, consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice.

Remember that growth spurts, teething, and changes in activity levels can affect appetite. It's important to approach feeding with patience and flexibility, adapting to your baby's evolving preferences and needs. If you have specific concerns, seek guidance from your pediatrician for tailored advice based on your baby's individual health and development.

#asktheexpert Hello Sir, Good Morning, My child is not eating food nicely and because of that he is very lean and thin. I tried many tastes but it works only for few days. Please suggest. Thank you