#asktheexpert my baby is taking required milk property (only mother milk), but not gaining wait 5months old and weight is 5.5kg only from around one month is it fine or not and in 6 months what foods can I start with.

Question

Accepted Answer

Your baby is 5 months old and weighs 5.5 kg. While every baby is unique and grows at their own pace, generally, babies should gain weight steadily during the first year. The average weight for a 5-month-old baby varies, but typically, the weight of a baby should double by 5 to 6 months, based on their birth weight.

Is this weight normal at 5 months?

Birth weight doubling by 5-6 months: Most babies double their birth weight by 5 to 6 months. For example, if your baby was born weighing around 2.5 kg, they might weigh around 5 kg by 5 months. If your baby weighs 5.5 kg at 5 months, and their birth weight was lower, it could be normal.

Growth patterns: Babies grow at different rates. If your baby is feeding well (exclusively breastfeeding) and is active, alert, and meeting developmental milestones (like holding their head up, smiling, etc.), it may simply be a case of a slower but steady growth pattern.

What to expect at 6 months?

At 6 months, the average weight for babies typically ranges between 6 to 9 kg, depending on their birth weight and growth trajectory. However, a baby's weight can be influenced by many factors, such as genetics, feeding habits, and health.

What you can do:

1. Monitor growth: Keep track of your baby’s weight, length, and head circumference at regular check-ups with the pediatrician. This will help ensure that your baby’s growth is on track.

2. Ensure proper feeding: Continue to breastfeed your baby on demand, as breast milk provides the best nutrition for growth. Make sure your baby is latching well and getting enough milk during each feed.

3. Solid foods (after 6 months): At 6 months, you can start introducing solid foods along with breast milk. Start with simple purees like rice cereal, mashed fruits, and vegetables. This will provide extra nutrients to support growth.

4. Consult your pediatrician: If you are concerned about your baby's weight gain, it’s always a good idea to discuss it with your pediatrician. They may want to assess your baby’s feeding patterns, overall health, and recommend any necessary tests or adjustments.

Weight gain isn't always linear, and as long as your baby is otherwise healthy, happy, and meeting developmental milestones, your baby's weight might just be following its natural curve. But if there are concerns, it's always best to seek guidance from your healthcare provider.