My baby girl 13 months old is not gaining enough weight she is 8 kg but she is super active and always prefer mother milk how to encourage for solids

Question

Accepted Answer

If your 13-month-old daughter weighs 8 kg and is active but not gaining enough weight, here are some strategies to encourage her to eat more solids while still ensuring she gets the nutrition she needs:

1. Balanced Diet:

Nutrient-Dense Foods: Offer high-calorie foods like avocados, nut butters (if no allergy), full-fat yogurt, cheese, and eggs.

Variety of Textures: Introduce different textures and flavors to make solids more appealing. Finger foods can be especially enticing.

2. Encourage Self-Feeding:

Allow her to explore self-feeding, which can increase her interest in eating solids. Let her choose from a variety of foods on her plate.

3. Limit Breastfeeding:

Gradually reduce breastfeeding sessions if she prefers it over solids. Try to replace one breastfeeding session with a solid meal or snack to encourage her to eat more.

4. Scheduled Meal Times:

Establish regular meal and snack times. Offer solids before breastfeeding to encourage her to eat more of the solid food first.

5. Make Meals Fun:

Create a pleasant and relaxed eating environment. Engage her by making meals interactive, such as allowing her to help with preparation or presenting food in fun shapes.

6. Use Fortified Foods:

Incorporate fortified cereals or snacks that can help increase calorie intake without needing large quantities.

7. Monitor Fluid Intake:

Ensure she is not filling up on liquids (including milk) before meals. Offer milk after meals rather than before.

8. Consult a Pediatrician:

If her weight gain remains a concern, consult with a pediatrician or a nutritionist. They can assess her growth pattern, nutritional needs, and provide personalized advice.

Conclusion:

Encouraging your daughter to eat more solids while gradually reducing breastfeeding can help her gain the weight she needs. Keep monitoring her growth and development, and seek professional guidance if necessary.