Suggest Balanced Diet For A 12 Month Old Child

Posted on Sat, 18 Jun 2016

Question: Hello Doctor, i have a baby boy who is now 12 months old, he eats very less. Can you please suggest a best way by which we can give his meal. And the best vegetarian meal which covers all the nutrition.

Answered by Dr. Archana Verma (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Ensure balanced diet

Detailed Answer:
Hi

I understand your concerns but don't worry. A one year old should be offered atleast 5 bowls of complementary feeds along with milk for proper growth and development. Ensure that you offer all the nutrients and your staple food. It must include:
- carbohydrates: rice, wheat, ragi, suji, maize etc
- proteins: pulses, soyabeans, dairy products, poultry
- fats: oils, butter, cream
- vitamins and minerals: vegetables, fruits etc

To improve his appetite:
- avoid force feeding
- offer food at 2-4 hours interval ( make proper time table) instead of all the time. In between offer water if required
- do not give water before and during feeds
- attractive presentation of food and minimal distraction by television will be useful.
- make the feeding times a pleasant experience by singing rhymes, letting him feed himself.
- offer more of finger foods which he can take on his own.
- try to get ideas of a variety of baby foods from several websites on recipes.
- You may start Syp. Bevon to boost appetite if required.
- iron supplements are useful if child looks pale will low hemoglobin on blood examination.

Hopefully it will be of help.
Take care

Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar