#asktheexpert my 1.4 years old son is still dependent on milk and doesn’t want to eat. Please suggest ways to move him to solids totally

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Accepted Answer

It's common for toddlers to prefer milk over solids, but transitioning your 1.4-year-old son to eat more solids is important for his growth and development. Here are some tips to gradually shift his dependence from milk to a balanced diet:

Steps to Transition from Milk to Solids:

Limit Milk Intake:

Toddlers need about 400-500 ml (13-17 oz) of milk daily. Excess milk can reduce hunger for solids. Gradually decrease milk quantity and avoid offering it close to mealtimes.

Set a Meal Routine:

Offer three meals and two snacks at consistent times daily. Offer milk only after meals or as a bedtime drink.

Introduce Variety:

Start with foods that are easy to eat and similar in texture to what he enjoys, such as mashed potatoes, porridge, or soft rice. Gradually introduce a variety of textures and flavors like finger foods, soft fruits (banana, mango), boiled vegetables, or small pieces of chapati.

Make Mealtime Fun:

Use colorful plates, spoons, or fun shapes to make food appealing. Allow him to explore food with his hands to encourage interest.

Lead by Example:

Eat together as a family. Seeing you eat solids may encourage him to imitate.

Offer Healthy Alternatives:

Replace some milk feeds with nutrient-rich solids: Breakfast: Oatmeal, dosa, or idli with ghee. Lunch/Dinner: Rice with dal, soft roti with curd, or khichdi. Snacks: Fruit slices, cheese, or boiled sweet potato. Use milk as part of meals, like making rice kheer, smoothies, or custards.

Encourage Self-Feeding:

Offer small pieces of food he can pick up and eat himself, like soft breadsticks, steamed vegetables, or cooked pasta.

Be Patient but Firm:

Toddlers often reject new foods initially. Keep offering the same food multiple times without forcing him.

Distract Less:

Avoid distractions like TV or mobile phones during meals. Encourage focus on eating. If He Refuses Solids: Check Hunger Cues: Ensure he’s hungry before offering food. Don’t Give In Too Quickly: If he refuses solids, don’t immediately offer milk. Wait and try again later. Mix Foods: Add small amounts of solids like mashed veggies or cereals into his milk initially, then gradually increase the quantity. When to See a Doctor:

If your child consistently refuses solids, has poor weight gain, or shows signs of nutritional deficiency, consult a pediatrician or nutritionist for advice.

Transitioning takes time, but consistency and patience will help him develop healthy eating habits.