#asktheexpert mam 7 month baby how to weight increase

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#asktheexpert  mam 7 month baby how to weight increase

Accepted Answer

For a 7-month-old baby, healthy weight gain is often linked to a balanced diet, proper feeding routines, and overall care. Here are some tips to help increase your baby's weight:

1. Ensure Adequate Feeding:

Breastfeeding or Formula Feeding: Ensure your baby is getting enough breast milk or formula. At 7 months, breast milk or formula should still be the primary source of nutrition. Offer feeds regularly (around 4-5 times a day) or as per your baby’s needs.

Introduce Solids: If your pediatrician has recommended solids, start offering baby-friendly foods such as mashed fruits (bananas, apples), vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots), and soft grains (rice, oats). Make sure the food is appropriately mashed or pureed to avoid choking hazards.

Add healthy fats: Foods like avocado, ghee, or pureed nuts can help increase calorie intake. You can mix a little ghee or butter into vegetables or porridge.

2. Offer High-Calorie, Nutrient-Dense Foods:

Mashed Avocado: Avocados are packed with healthy fats and calories, which can help with weight gain.

Full-fat yogurt: Once your baby is ready for dairy, full-fat yogurt is a good source of calories, protein, and fats.

Nut butters: If your baby is not allergic to nuts, you can introduce smooth peanut or almond butter mixed with fruits or vegetables.

Cheese: Full-fat cheese is also a good option for additional calories and protein.

3. Frequency of Feeding:

Offer small meals throughout the day, making sure to feed your baby 3 solid meals along with regular breast milk or formula.

4. Monitor and Adapt the Diet:

Diversify Foods: Continue to introduce different solid foods, including fruits, vegetables, rice, cereals, lentils, and meat (once recommended by your doctor).

Observe Your Baby’s Preferences: Sometimes, babies may reject certain foods. Try offering a variety of textures (pureed, mashed, or soft pieces) to find out what your baby prefers.

5. Encourage Healthy Sleep:

Adequate sleep is important for your baby’s growth and weight gain. Ensure your baby gets sufficient naps and nighttime sleep to support their growth.

6. Monitor Growth:

Track growth milestones: Regularly check your baby's weight and growth with your pediatrician to ensure they are gaining weight appropriately.

7. Avoid Over-stressing:

Weight gain may vary from baby to baby, so don't be alarmed if your baby is on the slower side. Ensure they are developing well in other areas, such as motor skills and social interactions.

When to Consult a Pediatrician:

If your baby is not gaining weight as expected, is eating well but not gaining enough weight, or seems lethargic or unwell, consult your pediatrician. They may suggest further tests or nutrition plans tailored to your baby’s specific needs.

These strategies, paired with regular pediatric visits, can help ensure that your 7-month-old baby gains weight healthily.