Hi mam ,my baby is 22 months old ,His weight is 8 kg ,is it normal or please suggest me weight gaining routine for my baby

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Accepted Answer

A weight of 8 kg for a 22-month-old baby is below the average weight range. Typically, at 22 months, boys weigh between 10-13 kg (22-28 lbs), and girls weigh slightly less on average. However, many factors like genetics, activity levels, and overall health can influence weight. If your baby is active, meeting developmental milestones, and has a good appetite, they may still be healthy despite being on the lower side of the weight spectrum.

However, if you're concerned about your child's weight, it's a good idea to consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying health issues. Meanwhile, here are some general suggestions to help promote healthy weight gain:

### **1. Offer Nutrient-Dense Foods:**
   - **High-Calorie Foods:** Include foods that are rich in healthy fats like avocados, nut butters (like almond or peanut butter, if there are no allergies), full-fat yogurt, cheese, and ghee (clarified butter). 
   - **Protein-Rich Foods:** Offer eggs, chicken, fish, lentils, beans, and tofu. Proteins are essential for growth and muscle development.
   - **Whole Grains:** Incorporate whole grains like oats, brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread. These provide energy and essential nutrients.
   - **Fruits and Vegetables:** Offer a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure a balanced intake of vitamins and minerals. You can add mashed fruits like bananas or avocados to other foods for added calories.

### **2. Encourage Regular Meals and Snacks:**
   - Offer three main meals and two to three healthy snacks throughout the day. Make sure that the snacks are nutritious rather than just empty calories. Examples include fruit smoothies, cheese sticks, boiled eggs, or whole grain crackers with hummus.

### **3. Add Healthy Fats to Meals:**
   - Drizzle olive oil, add a small amount of butter or ghee, or include full-fat dairy products in your baby’s meals to increase caloric intake.

### **4. Avoid Empty Calories:**
   - Minimize foods that are high in sugar and low in nutrients, like candy, sugary drinks, and processed snacks. These can fill your baby up without providing the nutrients they need.

### **5. Make Mealtime Enjoyable:**
   - Ensure that mealtime is a pleasant experience without pressure. Offer a variety of foods and let your baby explore different textures and flavors.

### **6. Fortify Foods:**
   - Fortify your child's meals by adding powdered milk to porridge or soups, mashed beans or lentils to rice or vegetables, or grated cheese over vegetables or pasta dishes.

### **7. Ensure Adequate Hydration:**
   - While it’s important to keep your baby hydrated, avoid filling them up with too much water or juice before meals as it can reduce their appetite for solid foods.

### **8. Monitor for Feeding Problems:**
   - Make sure there are no feeding difficulties or underlying medical issues like allergies, intolerances, or gastrointestinal issues that might affect their weight gain.

### **9. Regular Pediatric Check-ups:**
   - Continue with regular pediatric check-ups to monitor your child’s growth and development. The doctor might suggest a weight-gain supplement if necessary.

### **10. Maintain a Routine:**
   - A consistent eating routine can help regulate hunger and encourage a healthy appetite. Try to offer meals and snacks at the same times each day.

If your child continues to have trouble gaining weight or if you notice any other concerning symptoms (like low energy levels, poor appetite, or frequent illnesses), it's important to consult with a pediatrician or a pediatric nutritionist for a tailored plan that suits your child's specific needs.