POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy11 months agoA. For an 8-month-old baby weighing 7 kg, here are some healthy ways to promote weight gain and support growth:
1. Offer Nutrient-Dense Foods:
At 8 months, your baby can eat solid foods in addition to breast milk or formula. Focus on offering nutrient-dense, high-calorie foods that are suitable for her age:
Fats: Healthy fats are essential for weight gain. Include foods like ghee, butter, avocado, and full-fat dairy products (yogurt, cheese).
Protein: Offer mashed lentils, well-cooked and mashed beans, egg yolk, and small amounts of meat or chicken (well-pureed).
Fruits: Banana, avocado, and papaya are calorie-dense fruits that can be mashed and given to babies.
Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and carrots are great options. You can mash or puree them with a little ghee or butter.
Grains: Rice, oats, and semolina (sooji) can be cooked with milk or water and mixed with pureed fruits or vegetables for added calories.
2. Frequent Meals:
At this age, you can offer 3 main meals along with 2 snacks in between, in addition to breast milk or formula. Small, frequent meals will help your baby get enough calories throughout the day.
3. Add Healthy Fats to Meals:
Add a small amount of ghee, butter, or olive oil to her meals, like in her mashed vegetables or porridge.
4. Continue Breastfeeding/Formula Feeding:
Breast milk or formula should still be a significant part of her diet until she turns one. Ensure she continues to get adequate breastfeeds or formula feeds alongside solid foods.
5. Offer Variety:
Keep introducing a variety of foods to ensure she gets all the nutrients she needs. Try different combinations of vegetables, fruits, cereals, and proteins to keep her meals interesting.
6. Avoid Over-Relying on Juices or Low-Calorie Foods:
Limit the amount of fruit juices, as they contain fewer calories than whole fruits and can fill her up without providing much nutrition. Focus on calorie-dense options instead.
7. Stay Patient:
Babies grow at their own pace, and it’s normal for weight gain to slow down a little as they become more active. Keep monitoring her growth, but don’t worry too much as long as she’s eating well and staying active.
8. Consult a Pediatrician:
If you're concerned about her weight, it's always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician. They can track her growth on a chart and give personalized advice.
By offering nutrient-dense foods and continuing to breastfeed or provide formula, you can ensure your baby gets the necessary nutrition for healthy weight gain.
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