#asktheexpert
what to do if baby is not eating sufficient liquid food??
weight gain is slow, so what to do healthy weight gain??

Question

#asktheexpert 
what to do if baby is not eating sufficient liquid food?? 
weight gain is slow, so what to do healthy weight gain??

Accepted Answer

If your 9-month-old baby isn't consuming sufficient liquid food and is experiencing slow weight gain, consider these strategies to encourage healthy weight gain and ensure they receive adequate nutrition:

### **1. **Incorporate Calorie-Dense Liquids****
   - **Fortified Formula or Milk**: Use formula or breast milk that is fortified with additional nutrients and calories.
   - **Smoothies**: Blend fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and a little bit of healthy fat (like avocado) to create nutrient-rich smoothies. Ensure the consistency is appropriate for your baby's age.

### **2. **Offer Frequent, Small Feedings****
   - **Regular Feedings**: Provide smaller amounts of liquid more frequently throughout the day to ensure your baby is getting enough calories.
   - **Snack Options**: Include nutritious snacks like yogurt or blended fruits between meals.

### **3. **Increase Nutrient Density in Solids****
   - **Fortified Foods**: Offer solid foods that are high in calories and nutrients, such as mashed sweet potatoes, avocados, and eggs.
   - **Add Healthy Fats**: Mix in healthy fats, such as olive oil or nut butters (if allergies are not a concern), into their meals.

### **4. **Make Liquids More Appealing****
   - **Flavor Variations**: Experiment with different flavors by adding small amounts of fruit or vegetable purees to the liquid.
   - **Serve at Different Temperatures**: Try offering liquids at different temperatures (warm or cold) to see if your baby prefers one over the other.

### **5. **Create a Positive Mealtime Environment****
   - **Avoid Distractions**: Make mealtimes calm and focused. Sit with your baby and make the experience enjoyable.
   - **Encourage Self-Feeding**: Allow your baby to hold their bottle or sippy cup to foster a sense of independence and engagement.

### **6. **Monitor and Address Health Concerns****
   - **Check for Issues**: If your baby has other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of discomfort, consult your pediatrician. These could indicate an underlying issue affecting their appetite.
   - **Growth Monitoring**: Regularly track your baby’s growth and development. Your pediatrician can provide guidance if your baby is not gaining weight as expected.

### **7. **Consult a Pediatrician**
   - **Professional Evaluation**: If your baby consistently refuses liquids or has low weight gain despite your efforts, consult your pediatrician. They can assess for any underlying issues, offer tailored advice, and possibly refer you to a specialist if needed.

### **8. **Consider a Nutritional Supplement**
   - **Supplemental Nutrition**: In some cases, your pediatrician might recommend a specialized nutritional supplement to ensure your baby is receiving adequate calories and nutrients.

Ensuring your baby gets the right balance of nutrients and calories is crucial for healthy weight gain. By offering a variety of nutrient-dense foods and liquids and monitoring their overall health, you can help support your baby's growth and development.

#asktheexpert what to do if baby is not eating sufficient liquid food?? weight gain is slow, so what to do healthy weight gain??