#asktheexperts my baby is not gaining weight properly. She is 6.7 kg and is 8 months old. Please advise what to do

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It's understandable to be concerned about your baby's weight gain. At 8 months, an average baby girl typically weighs between 6.8 kg and 8.6 kg. While your baby is slightly below the average range, it's important to consider her overall growth pattern, activity level, and developmental milestones. Here are some steps you can take to help support healthy weight gain:

### Dietary Recommendations:
1. **Increase Caloric Intake:**
   - **Breast Milk or Formula:** Ensure she is getting adequate breast milk or formula. These should still be her primary sources of nutrition.
   - **Frequent Feedings:** Offer breast milk or formula more frequently if she seems hungry or if she's not feeding well during regular sessions.

2. **Introduce Nutritious Solids:**
   - **Avocado:** High in healthy fats and calories.
   - **Sweet Potatoes:** Rich in vitamins and calories.
   - **Bananas:** High in calories and easy to digest.
   - **Full-fat Yogurt:** Provides protein and healthy fats.
   - **Mashed Lentils or Beans:** Good sources of protein and fiber.
   - **Egg Yolks:** Rich in nutrients (check for allergies and introduce egg whites cautiously).

3. **Increase Meal Frequency:**
   - Offer 3 main meals and 2-3 snacks a day.
   - Ensure each meal is nutrient-dense and balanced.

### Feeding Tips:
1. **Encourage Self-Feeding:**
   - Provide soft finger foods to encourage self-feeding and make mealtime enjoyable.
   
2. **Create a Relaxed Eating Environment:**
   - Minimize distractions and make mealtime a calm and positive experience.

3. **Monitor Fluid Intake:**
   - Avoid giving too much water or juice, which can fill her up without providing necessary calories and nutrients.

### Monitoring and Medical Advice:
1. **Track Growth:**
   - Keep regular check-ups with your pediatrician to monitor her growth and development.
   
2. **Evaluate Feeding Techniques:**
   - Discuss with your pediatrician or a lactation consultant if you have concerns about breastfeeding or bottle-feeding techniques.

3. **Check for Underlying Issues:**
   - Rule out any medical conditions that might be affecting her weight gain, such as gastrointestinal issues, allergies, or metabolic disorders.

4. **Supplements:**
   - Consult with your pediatrician about the need for any vitamin or mineral supplements.

### Activity and Development:
1. **Encourage Play:**
   - Ensure she gets plenty of floor time and physical activity, which can stimulate appetite and promote healthy development.

Every baby grows at their own pace, and what's most important is the overall trend in growth and development. Regular check-ins with your pediatrician will help ensure that your baby is on a healthy path.