Moreover, your baby has a small tummy but big nutrition needs. Your baby needs more nutrients per kg body weight than you. Hence, your baby requires proper feeding to meet the growing needs.
Breastfeeding and Complementary Meals (Home-made Preparations and Fortified Meals) will ensure proper nutrition for your baby.
| Age-group | Complementary Foods | Texture/Consistency | Amount per feed | Frequency |
| 6 to 8 months | Introduce foods such as ripe banana, sweet potato, cooked ground rice or wheat porridge With above feeds, start foods such as mashed dhal, ragi or ground millet etc., mixed with oil. |
Thin purees/porridge, well mashed foods | Start with 1 tablespoon and gradually offer 2–3 tablespoons | Start with 1–2 feeds/day and gradually offer 2–3 feeds/day |
| 8 to 10 months | Chapatti softened in milk , green leafy vegetables can be added to dhal or kichri idli, upma, curd rice, variety of vegetables and soft fruits. Feed two or more fruits and vegetables mixed together. You can even mix two or more cereals. | Semi-solid/ mashed foods. | ½ cup or bowl (125 ml) | 3–4 feeds/day |
General Guidelines:
Try rejected food at least 7 to 8 times before deciding whether your baby likes it or not.
- Introduce new foods one at a time.
- Continue breastfeeding 3-4 times a day.
- Don’t force the baby to eat the foods.
- Use small spoon and a cup to feed the baby.
- Offer water between the two feedings.3
- Wash your hands and utensils properly before preparing the meals.
- Avoid sugary, salty and spicy foods, caffeine containing foods like colas, tea, and coffee
A fussy or picky eater may require more attention while feeding. Feeding your baby together with the family can help the child to inculcate family eating habits. Interaction with your baby while feeding is also important. Last but not the least be a good role model and eat healthy to encourage your baby to eat the right foods.
0 reviews