#asktheexperts my baby girl is one year old and is 8.5 kg only.
Her birthday weight was 3.3 kg but she is not gaining weight and do not want to eat solid food. We were giving her formula but she is not gaining weight because of not eating solids.
How can we make her eat solid food also is the weight of hers concerning??

Question

Accepted Answer

It sounds like you’re concerned about your one-year-old daughter's weight and her reluctance to eat solid foods. Here are some suggestions to encourage her to eat solids and address her weight concerns:

1. Offer Variety and Texture

Different Foods: Introduce a variety of textures and flavors. Some babies may prefer softer foods like mashed fruits or vegetables, while others may enjoy finger foods.

Colorful Presentation: Make the food visually appealing. Use different colors and shapes to attract her interest.

2. Create a Routine

Regular Meal Times: Establish regular meal and snack times. Having a routine can help her understand when it's time to eat.

Family Meals: Encourage her to eat with the family. Seeing others eat can motivate her to try new foods.

3. Make Food Fun

Involve Her: Allow her to help with meal preparation. This can make her more interested in the food.

Finger Foods: Offer easy-to-hold finger foods like small pieces of soft fruits, steamed vegetables, cheese cubes, or small pancakes.

4. Limit Distractions

Focused Eating: Create a calm eating environment without distractions like screens or loud noises. This can help her focus on eating.

5. Be Patient and Consistent

Try Again: If she refuses a food, wait a few days and try again. It may take multiple exposures for her to accept new foods.

Stay Calm: Avoid pressuring her to eat, as this can create a negative association with food.

6. Nutrient-Dense Foods

High-Calorie Options: Offer healthy, high-calorie foods such as avocado, nut butters (if there are no allergies), full-fat dairy products, and cooked lentils.

Smoothies: If she refuses solid foods, try making smoothies with fruits, vegetables, and yogurt or formula to increase her calorie intake.

7. Consult a Pediatrician

Check for Underlying Issues: Since she is not gaining weight and is reluctant to eat, it’s important to consult a pediatrician. They can rule out any underlying health issues and may suggest seeing a nutritionist for personalized guidance.

8. Consider Supplementation

Nutritional Supplements: If advised by her doctor, consider using nutritional supplements or fortified foods to help her gain weight.

9. Monitor Growth

Regular Check-Ups: Keep track of her growth and development. Regular pediatric visits can help monitor her weight and overall health.

Conclusion

It’s essential to be patient and persistent as you encourage her to try new foods. Each child is unique, and with time and the right strategies, she may develop a better appetite for solid foods. If concerns about her weight persist, don't hesitate to seek professional advice for further evaluation and tailored recommendations.