#asktheexperts Baby is 9 month old but weight is still 6.5kg...weight gain tips??

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Accepted Answer

For a 9-month-old Indian baby, introducing a variety of nutrient-rich foods is crucial to support growth and development. Here are some weight-gaining foods that you can include in your baby's diet:

1. **Homemade Cerelac (Khichdi):**
   - Prepare a simple khichdi with rice, lentils (dal), and vegetables. It's a nutritious and easy-to-digest option.

2. **Ragi (Finger Millet) Porridge:**
   - Ragi is a good source of calcium and iron. Cook ragi flour with water or milk to make a porridge.

3. **Banana:**
   - Bananas are rich in potassium and provide natural sweetness. Mash or offer small pieces as a finger food.

4. **Sweet Potato:**
   - Sweet potatoes are high in vitamins and provide energy. Boil or steam and mash for easy consumption.

5. **Avocado:**
   - Avocado is rich in healthy fats and nutrients. Mash it and offer as a spread or in pureed form.

6. **Moong Dal (Green Gram):**
   - Cook moong dal and blend it to a smooth consistency. It's a good source of protein.

7. **Ghee:**
   - Adding a small amount of ghee to your baby's meals can provide essential fats and calories.

8. **Paneer (Cottage Cheese):**
   - Soft paneer can be mashed or grated and added to meals. It's a good source of protein and calcium.

9. **Oats Porridge:**
   - Oats are rich in fiber and nutrients. Prepare a smooth porridge by cooking oats in milk or water.

10. **Papaya:**
    - Papaya is a tropical fruit that is easy to digest and rich in vitamins. Mash or offer small, soft pieces.

11. **Yogurt:**
    - Full-fat yogurt is a good source of calcium and probiotics. Offer plain yogurt or mix it with fruits.

12. **Egg Yolk:**
    - If your baby has started on non-vegetarian foods, you can introduce egg yolk, which is rich in healthy fats and protein.

13. **Pulses (Dal):**
    - Introduce various pulses like masoor dal, chana dal, or urad dal in pureed form for protein.

14. **Multigrain Porridge:**
    - Make a multigrain porridge by combining different grains like rice, wheat, and ragi for a varied nutrient profile.

15. **Beetroot Puree:**
    - Beetroot is rich in iron. Cook and puree it to introduce a different flavor to your baby.

Always ensure that the foods are prepared and presented in a way that is suitable for your baby's age and ability to chew. Introduce new foods gradually, one at a time, and observe for any signs of allergies or sensitivities. If you have concerns about your baby's weight or diet, consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice.