#AskTheExpert my baby's weight is not op enough as per her age she is 3yrs she is less interested in taking food and still she is taking breast feeding.How can I increase her weight

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It's important to ensure that your child is growing and developing properly. If your 3-year-old is underweight or not eating enough, there are several strategies you can use to help increase her weight and improve her nutritional intake. Here are some suggestions:

### Strategies to Increase Your Child's Weight:

1. **Consult a Pediatrician**:
   - Schedule a visit with your pediatrician to discuss your child's growth and development. They can provide personalized recommendations and check for any underlying medical issues.

2. **Nutrient-Dense Foods**:
   - Offer foods that are high in nutrients and calories. Some examples include:
     - **Avocado**: Rich in healthy fats and calories.
     - **Nut Butters**: Peanut butter or almond butter can be spread on toast or mixed into smoothies.
     - **Cheese**: A good source of calcium and protein.
     - **Eggs**: Versatile and rich in protein.
     - **Whole Milk and Full-Fat Dairy Products**: Provide more calories and essential nutrients.
     - **Healthy Oils**: Add olive oil or coconut oil to cooked vegetables and meals.

3. **Small, Frequent Meals**:
   - Offer small, frequent meals and snacks rather than three large meals. This can make it easier for your child to eat more throughout the day.

4. **Smoothies and Shakes**:
   - Make smoothies or milkshakes with fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and a bit of honey or peanut butter for extra calories.

5. **Encourage Self-Feeding**:
   - Allow your child to feed herself. This can make mealtime more enjoyable and help her develop a positive relationship with food.

6. **Make Food Fun**:
   - Use cookie cutters to make fun shapes out of fruits, vegetables, and sandwiches. This can make eating more appealing.

7. **Limit Distractions**:
   - Minimize distractions during meals, such as TV or toys, to help your child focus on eating.

8. **Create a Routine**:
   - Establish regular meal and snack times. A routine can help your child develop a healthy eating pattern.

9. **Role Modeling**:
   - Eat together as a family whenever possible. Children often mimic their parents' eating habits.

10. **Reduce Breastfeeding Gradually**:
    - At this age, it might be helpful to gradually reduce breastfeeding to encourage more intake of solid foods. Consult with your pediatrician for advice on weaning.

11. **Supplements**:
    - In some cases, your pediatrician might recommend a multivitamin or other supplements to ensure your child is getting all necessary nutrients.

### Sample Daily Meal Plan:
Here is a sample meal plan that includes nutrient-dense foods and frequent meals:

- **Breakfast**:
  - Scrambled eggs with cheese and whole-grain toast
  - A small glass of whole milk

- **Morning Snack**:
  - A small cup of yogurt with a drizzle of honey and a handful of berries

- **Lunch**:
  - Grilled chicken strips with avocado slices and sweet potato fries
  - A piece of fruit

- **Afternoon Snack**:
  - Peanut butter on apple slices or whole-grain crackers

- **Dinner**:
  - Pasta with a creamy sauce, mixed vegetables, and small meatballs
  - A side of steamed broccoli with a bit of olive oil

- **Evening Snack**:
  - A small smoothie made with whole milk, banana, peanut butter, and a handful of spinach

### Professional Support:
- **Dietitian**: A registered dietitian can provide personalized meal plans and advice to ensure your child is getting the necessary nutrients.

Remember, every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. It's important to be patient and consistent with your efforts, and always seek professional advice if you have concerns about your child's growth and nutrition.