#asktheexpert hi mam my baby is now 14 mth his weight is only 10 kg and he is not eating well what to do

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Accepted Answer

It can be concerning when your 14-month-old isn't eating well and isn't gaining as much weight as you'd expect. A weight of 10 kg is within the normal range for many children at this age, but it's essential to ensure he gets the proper nutrition to support healthy growth.

Here are a few strategies to encourage better eating and weight gain:

### 1. **Offer Small, Frequent Meals:**
   - Instead of focusing on three large meals, offer 5-6 small meals or snacks throughout the day. At this age, kids can have small appetites, so smaller portions spread out may work better.

### 2. **Make Food Interesting:**
   - Try to make mealtime fun by offering colorful, bite-sized portions. Finger foods like small pieces of fruit, cheese, or cooked vegetables might engage him more.
   
### 3. **Include Nutrient-Dense Foods:**
   - **Healthy fats:** Add ghee, butter, olive oil, or avocado to his meals. You can also give foods like peanut butter, almond paste, and full-fat dairy (yogurt, cheese).
   - **Protein:** Ensure he is getting enough protein with foods like eggs, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, or lean meats.
   - **Carbohydrates:** Rice, potatoes, whole grain bread, and oats are good sources of energy for growing babies.

### 4. **Avoid Force Feeding:**
   - Allow him to eat at his own pace and avoid forcing food, as this can create a negative association with eating. Offer food and let him decide how much to eat.

### 5. **Create a Calm Mealtime Environment:**
   - Reduce distractions (like TV or toys) during mealtime and try to make it a family activity. Babies are more likely to eat if they see their parents or siblings eating the same food.

### 6. **Ensure Adequate Hydration:**
   - Make sure he drinks enough water but avoid filling him up with milk or juices just before meals, as this can decrease his appetite.

### 7. **Check for Underlying Issues:**
   - If he’s consistently refusing food, it might be worth checking for underlying issues like teething pain, food intolerances, or digestive discomfort. Consult your pediatrician if you suspect there’s an issue.

If despite these efforts, his eating habits don't improve or you're concerned about his growth, it's always a good idea to consult a pediatrician to rule out any medical issues and get personalized advice.