my baby is not gaining weight. help me through this

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Accepted Answer

To help your one-year-old baby gain weight in a healthy way, it's important to focus on offering nutrient-dense foods that provide both energy and essential nutrients. Here are some strategies and food ideas:

### 1. **Increase Healthy Fats:**
   Healthy fats provide energy and support brain development.
   - **Ghee or butter:** Add a small amount to cooked vegetables, rice, or chapati.
   - **Olive oil:** Use it to cook meals or drizzle over food.
   - **Avocados:** They are rich in healthy fats and can be mashed or spread on toast.

### 2. **Include Protein-Rich Foods:**
   Protein helps with muscle development and overall growth.
   - **Eggs:** Serve boiled, scrambled, or in omelets.
   - **Lentils and legumes (dal, chickpeas):** Easy to digest and packed with nutrients.
   - **Dairy:** Full-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt provide protein and fat. Consider homemade paneer as well.
   - **Chicken, fish, and tofu:** Ensure they are soft and easy to chew.

### 3. **Offer High-Calorie Snacks:**
   Include healthy snacks between meals.
   - **Bananas:** Rich in calories and easy to digest.
   - **Sweet potatoes:** Mashed or as fries, they’re high in nutrients.
   - **Nut butters:** Almond or peanut butter spread on bread or crackers.
   - **Cheese slices:** A good snack for adding calories.

### 4. **Fortified Cereals and Grains:**
   Carbohydrates are essential for energy.
   - **Rice or rice porridge:** You can mix in ghee or butter.
   - **Oats:** Serve as porridge or baked into snacks like oat bars.
   - **Chapati or parathas:** Use whole wheat and add some ghee for extra calories.

### 5. **Full-fat Dairy:**
   - Offer full-fat yogurt, milk, and cheese in the form of smoothies or alongside meals.

### 6. **Make Mealtime Fun:**
   - Ensure a calm environment and try serving foods in fun shapes or finger foods to engage your baby.
   
### 7. **Hydration and Fluids:**
   - Offer water between meals but avoid giving too much milk or juice close to meal times, as it may reduce appetite for solid foods.

### 8. **Frequent, Smaller Meals:**
   Instead of focusing on large meals, provide small, frequent meals and snacks every 2-3 hours.

### 9. **Supplements (if recommended):**
   - If your baby is not gaining weight despite trying different foods, your pediatrician might recommend vitamin or mineral supplements.

If you're concerned about your baby's weight gain, it's always best to consult with a pediatrician, who can guide you based on your baby’s individual needs.