#asktheexpert my daughter age is around 18 months her weight is around 6.8 kg... kindly guide what to do.. for weight gain..

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Accepted Answer

For an 18-month-old child weighing 6.8 kg, it’s important to address weight gain with a combination of dietary strategies and professional guidance. Here are steps you can take:

### **1. Consult a Pediatrician:**
- **Health Check:** Have your pediatrician assess your child’s overall health, growth patterns, and potential underlying causes for low weight. They can provide a tailored plan and address any concerns.

### **2. Nutrient-Dense Foods:**
- **High-Calorie Foods:** Offer foods that are high in calories and nutrients, such as:
  - **Avocados:** Rich in healthy fats.
  - **Nut Butters:** Peanut or almond butters (if there are no allergy concerns).
  - **Full-Fat Dairy:** Whole milk, cheese, and yogurt.
  - **Healthy Oils:** Olive oil or coconut oil added to foods.

### **3. Frequent, Small Meals:**
- **Regular Meals and Snacks:** Provide small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day to increase overall calorie intake without overwhelming her.

### **4. Fortify Foods:**
- **Add Extras:** Fortify foods with extra nutrients, such as adding powdered milk to cereal or using extra cheese in dishes.

### **5. Encourage Self-Feeding:**
- **Finger Foods:** Offer a variety of easy-to-eat finger foods that your child can feed herself. This may encourage more eating.

### **6. Offer Favorite Foods:**
- **Include Preferences:** Serve foods that your child enjoys and is more likely to eat. Incorporate these into meals to ensure she is getting enough nutrition.

### **7. Avoid Empty Calories:**
- **Balanced Diet:** Focus on nutrient-dense foods rather than sugary or processed snacks that may not provide essential vitamins and minerals.

### **8. Monitor Growth:**
- **Track Changes:** Regularly monitor her growth and weight gain progress. Keep a record of dietary intake and consult with a pediatrician to adjust the plan as needed.

### **9. Address Medical Issues:**
- **Identify Problems:** If there are any underlying health issues affecting appetite or nutrient absorption, your pediatrician can recommend appropriate treatments or interventions.

### **10. Promote a Positive Eating Environment:**
- **Stress-Free Meals:** Ensure mealtimes are pleasant and relaxed to help encourage eating without pressure.

Taking these steps, along with regular pediatric care, can help support your child’s growth and weight gain in a healthy manner.