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Baby is 15 months old, very underweight
My baby is 15 months old, resist to eat anything but sugar containing things.. it is very frustrating and disturbing for us..only 7.3 kg in weight and 73 cm...Diet plan is not what I need...I want to know how to make her feed anything
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Concerns:
Weight of 7.3 kg at 15 months: This is on the lower side, especially if birth weight and growth trends suggest slower weight gain.
Picky eating with preference for sugary foods: This is common at this age but can affect balanced nutrition and weight gain.
Possible Reasons for Picky Eating and Low Weight
Growth pattern or low appetite: Toddlers naturally grow slower after infancy, but low weight and a sugary diet can make things worse.
Nutritional gaps: Preferring sugary foods can reduce intake of essential nutrients like proteins, fats, iron, and calcium.
Feeding habits: Constant snacking or drinks (milk/juice) can reduce appetite for meals.
Underlying medical issues (if severe or persistent): Conditions like iron deficiency anemia, oral issues, food allergies, or even gastrointestinal problems could be contributing factors.
What You Can Do
1. Balanced Diet Approach
Offer frequent, small meals rich in energy and nutrients – whole grains, proteins (lentils, eggs, meat, dairy), healthy fats (ghee, nut butters), fruits, and vegetables.
Limit sugary snacks and replace with natural sweetness from fruits or yogurt with a bit of fruit puree.
Avoid force-feeding, but encourage a variety of foods.
2. Mealtime Strategies
Routine: Offer meals at regular intervals; avoid too many snacks or drinks close to mealtime.
Finger foods: Encourage self-feeding with easy-to-eat options.
Family meals: Toddlers mimic parents, so eat healthy meals together.
3. Nutritional Support
If weight gain is very slow, consider a high-calorie diet with small additions like adding ghee or oil to foods.
4. Monitor Weight Gain
A weight of 7.5 kg at 15 months is below the 3rd percentile on WHO growth charts. Consistent monitoring and addressing nutrition early is important.
When to Seek Medical Help
If your child:
Has persistent poor weight gain or loses weight
Shows lethargy, pale skin, or frequent infections
Has feeding difficulties, vomiting, or diarrhea
Refuses most solid foods for an extended period
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Dr. Shebin C E
Pediatrician
9 yrs exp
Kanyakumari
"It sounds incredibly challenging and worrying when your little one isn't eating well, especially at 15 months old and with her current weight and height. It's common for toddlers to go through phases of picky eating, but a strong preference for only sugary foods can be concerning.
Instead of focusing on a strict 'diet plan,' let's think about strategies to encourage her to try and accept a wider variety of foods. Here are some ideas:
* Continue Offering Variety: Even if she rejects them, keep offering healthy foods alongside any preferred items. Exposure is key. Offer small portions so it's not overwhelming.
* Make Mealtimes Positive: Try to keep mealtimes calm and free of pressure. Avoid force-feeding, as this can create negative associations with food.
* Involve Her in Food Prep: If possible, let her help with simple tasks in the kitchen, like washing vegetables or stirring. Children are sometimes more willing to try foods they've helped prepare.
* Offer Regularly, Not Constantly: Establish a routine of meals and snacks, and avoid constant grazing, which can reduce her appetite for more substantial foods.
* Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks: If she's filling up on juice, sweetened milk, or sugary snacks, she won't be hungry for other foods. Offer water between meals.
* Be a Role Model: Eat healthy foods yourself and let her see you enjoying them.
* Patience and Persistence: It can take many exposures (sometimes 10-15 or more!) for a child to accept a new food. Don't give up after one or two rejections.
* Consider Textures and Presentation: Sometimes a child resists certain textures. Try different preparations (steamed, roasted, pureed, mashed) and make plates visually appealing with different colors.
* Avoid Using Food as a Reward or Punishment: This can lead to unhealthy relationships with food.
* Address underlying medical issues: In some cases, there might be underlying medical reasons for significant picky eating or low weight gain.
Next Steps
* Consult with a Pediatrician: Given her age, weight, and height, and your concerns, it is crucial to schedule an appointment with her pediatrician as soon as possible. They can assess her growth curve, rule out any medical conditions, and provide personalized advice.
* Discuss with a Pediatric Dietitian/Nutritionist: Ask your pediatrician for a referral to a pediatric dietitian. They are experts in child nutrition and can provide specific strategies, meal ideas, and support for managing picky eating and ensuring adequate nutrient intake for her age and developmental stage."
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.