#asktheexpert my baby is 1 year old but she is underweight

Question

Accepted Answer

It's understandable to be concerned about your one-year-old's weight. While weight gain varies from child to child, here are a few things you can consider:

Ideal Weight for a 1-Year-Old: The average weight for a one-year-old baby is around 9-11 kg, but it can vary depending on the baby’s height, genetics, and activity level. Possible Causes of Underweight: Not enough calorie intake – The baby may not be consuming enough food or may be picky about eating. Medical conditions – Conditions like digestive issues, malabsorption, or food allergies may hinder proper weight gain. Increased activity – If your baby is very active, it might be burning calories faster than they can consume them. Growth Spurts – Sometimes babies go through periods of slow growth. Tips to Increase Weight: High-calorie foods – Add healthy, calorie-dense foods like avocados, full-fat dairy (like cheese and yogurt), peanut butter, ghee, and eggs to your baby’s meals. Frequent meals – Offer small, frequent meals throughout the day, as this can help increase calorie intake. Homemade smoothies – You can make smoothies with banana, yogurt, full-fat milk, and peanut butter to provide extra calories. Increase fats – Use healthy oils (like olive oil or coconut oil) in cooking, or add ghee to foods. Protein-rich foods – Include dal, eggs, chicken, paneer, and lentils for good quality proteins. Avoid filling up on liquids – Too much juice or water before meals can make your baby less interested in solid food. Monitor Growth: Track growth with regular pediatrician visits to ensure weight gain is consistent, even if it's slow. Consult a pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical conditions, especially if you notice a sudden drop in weight or feeding issues.

If your baby has any specific issues (like poor appetite, difficulty swallowing, or gastrointestinal discomfort), it's best to consult with your doctor.

Let me know if you'd like more specific suggestions for meals or any other help!