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Baby Not Eating - Reasons and Feeding Tips
When your baby is between 4 and 6 months of age, you may want to give him something other than just liquids. If your baby eats, you will be proud, but most babies do not accept transition swiftly. It’s a messy process that involves a lot of tantrums and confusion. They enjoy the fact that they are doing something new like eating. It's like exploring a new side of their mouth. But, most babies tend to slow down with the eating as their growth is less rapid, and hence they need less energy. Sometimes, you will find that your baby will be refusing food! This little person is making his opinions heard. Do not worry. There are many reasons why your baby is not eating, and you do not need to rush them off to the doctor just yet.
Reasons Your Baby Is Not Eating Well
It can be troubling when you see that your baby isn’t eating properly. He would not be able to tell you what is bothering him which makes it difficult to deduce the cause. However, you can check the below list to see what are the possible reasons for refusing food:
1. Too Many Fluids
Perhaps a baby had too much fluids during the day, whether juice or milk-based drinks. Giving these fluids can lower his appetite, so limit everything outside meals to a bare minimum.
2. Too Small
Your baby is not eating food because they may be too young to eat solids. A lot of mothers make the mistake of moving from liquids to solids too quickly. A good point to start with solid foods is 6 months.
3. Tune It Out
A baby could be distracted by innumerable things such as TV, outside noise and what not. Babies process their environment differently, and something as simple as noise will draw them away from their food.
4. The Growth Change
As a baby grows, he requires less to eat; so you need not worry if your child's appetite is shrinking with age. Baby growth is only natural and you should be proud that your baby is growing as per the development milestones.
5. Full Tank
He may be little, but he knows his belly. If he’s refusing every morsel, clamping his mouth shut and pushing the spoon away, your little bundle of joy is telling you that he has had enough. Trust him; he knows his body pretty well!
6. Doesn’t Want Something New
If your baby has decided that he doesn’t like this new food that you are giving him, he is likely to refuse it. Most kids grow out of this phase with time.
7. Allergies
If your little one could be allergic to certain foods and he will try to tell you that this particular item is not good for him. Monitor his behaviour, check for an allergic reaction and see if he is in physical distress.
Tips for Getting Your Baby to Eat
Here are some simple tips you can incorporate into your busy parenting schedule to convince your little one to eat what you serve:
1. Give Him Independence
Allow your child to feed himself. Do not force feed him. Keep options and let him choose what he wants to have. Do not give him certain food item because you like it or is healthy. Let him select and over the period of time he will be ready to try new things. You can also introduce finger foods to your baby.
2. Choice Matters
If you want to see your baby guzzling food, then offer a variety of healthy food choices. And do try to be creative with whatever you cook for him. Experiment with various colours of vegetables and fruits; children are attracted to colours, they will surely eat.
3. Threats Won't Work
Don't threaten them by saying things like “No playing with your toys if your plate is not clean”. This only creates a power struggle. You are not teaching him in a positive way but it is a kind of
4. Don’t Bribe
A lot of parents turn to the “One more bite and you will get a cookie,” approach, but this way you’re encouraging unhealthy eating habits. So abstain from doing these things.
5. A Family Affair
Try to have meals as a family. If your little one sees his siblings eating things they don’t like, they’re more likely to do the same.
6. Don’t Give In
If they firmly state they don’t like something, don't take it off the menu. These little people adjust to new tastes slowly, and you need to introduce it into their diet repeatedly till they realise that they have no choice and give it a try.
7. Play With Texture
Once you switch to solids, you might realise they’re not ready to chomp on big pieces, so you either switch to purees or opt for soups.
8. Get Messy
It’s a discovery of something entirely new. Let them explore the way they choose! They will smash, sniff, and throw it across the room to really get a feel of what this strange entity is that you expect them to put in their mouth. So, be ready for that.
9. Fool Them
If they don’t like a particular thing, change its appearance or get them excited about it. For instance, if they don’t like the idea of eating lamb but prefer chicken, just tell them it’s chicken.
10. Ask a Pro
It’s always a good idea to consult an expert, especially if a 2-year-old baby is not eating food. He would be able to tell you the appropriate solution for your little one and his eating needs. What’s more, he will also offer some sage advice to put your question, ‘My baby is not eating anything, what should I do?’ and your mind to rest.
When Should You Consult a Doctor
Keep a watch on your baby’s eating habits for a few days when he is refusing food. If he is still not eating a healthy amount, then consider taking him to a specialist. Do not panic if it has only been a few days as your baby could be adjusting to a new growth cycle. Although, if he seems to be having allergic reactions to certain foods, take him to a doctor immediately.
In rare cases, if you see these symptoms in your child, it is time to consult a paediatrician:
Vomiting
Blood in stool
Forceful vomiting
Dehydration
Weight loss
Gagging
Persistent diarrhoea
Abdominal pain
Remember, you are going through what every new parent out there has gone through. There is no reason to worry. Your little one is simply communicating his opinions to you and letting you know he would like certain foods, a certain way. Your role as a parent has expanded to include a fresh responsibility that can be quite enjoyable! You do not need to give in nor freak out about your baby's health or why your baby is refusing food. This is another step on the parenting path. Find your space within the realm of parenting and have fun with it.
Also Read: First Foods For Baby – What Foods You Should Introduce? Read more
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Top Six Bollywood Songs For a Filmy Diwali
Diwali time is Light, Camera, Action time! This November 7 will be all about decking up in gorgeous ethnic wear, doing the Puja, creating a sparkling home and whipping up treats for the family. Guess what can be the perfect backdrop for the festivity? Singing and dancing away to Diwali special songs with our very own Bollywood filmy tadka!
Diwali has always been Bollywood's favourite subject. No wonder that, since the glittering diyas, glowing fairy lights and tons of mithai make for superb filming subjects. This year, prepare to enthrall your family with Diwali songs for kids in Hindi, right from our season's special list!
Your Bollywood Diwali Songs List
1. Aaj Unse Milna Hai Mujhe
Thodi gunjiya-wunjiya lete chalein, thodi barfi-warfi lete chalein! Have you heard this song from Salman Khan's upcoming movie “Prem Ratan Dhan Paayo” yet? While it doesn't seem like a Diwali song at the outset, it is sure to be mouthwatering! From gujiya and barfi to mathri and kaaju-kishmish, Shaan enlists all you must gorge on this season.
2. Mere Tumhare Sabke Liye Happy Diwali
Saare sitaarein uske liye Happy Diwali! This a delightful song from a relatively lesser known film called “Home Delivery”. It truly celebrates the essence of coming together on Diwali – for you, your loved ones and the stars up above. One of those perfectly feel-good Deepavali songs in Hindi!
3. Jaise Diwali Ki Ho Raat Zindagi
Itni yeh khushiyan bolo rakh de kahan? When happiness comes aplenty this season, you are constantly crossing your fingers to ensure your family stays together exactly like this always. Breathe in, listen to this beautiful song from 13B and trust Diwali to light up lives every year.
4. Silsila Yeh Chahat Ka
Na bujha hai, na bujhega, meri chahat ka diya. A soul-stirring number from Shahrukh Khan starrer Devdas, this song serenades the power of diyas and how they stand for love, light and longing.
5. Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham
Yeh hai tere karam, kabhi khushi kabhi gham. What is Diwali about if not family get-togethers? This melodious song from the film of the same name celebrates homecoming of the proverbial Ram. After all, no festival is complete for moms without their kids, no matter how old!
6. Lakhon Tare Aasman Mein
Dekhke duniya ki Diwali, dil mera chupchap jala. If you are fond of old Hindi film songs, you are sure to love this stunning Shankar Jaikishan composition from Hariyali Aur Rasta. When the world is busy rejoicing, this song goes out to the lonely souls on Diwali night. This is one of those classic Diwali songs from Hindi movies that never feels old.
Playlist all set? Good! All you now have to do is tune in to these top Diwali songs, lay out mithai on the table, and make some beautiful memories with your family. Happy Diwali! Read more
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Avoiding Tantrums During Mealtimes
Improving your child's eating habits is a herculean task. Since it is up to your child to decide what and how much he wants to eat, your job should be to ensure whatever he eats is healthy and delicious.
Taking care of your little one is not an easy task. Even if you control every aspect of his life, there are certain areas where, as a parent, you would have no control at all. These areas include eating, sleeping and peeing/pooping. You cannot get your child to eat, sleep or pee easily.
It is one reason parents struggle to handle their toddler’s eating tantrums. Every parent has to fight the battle of training their child to eat properly by continuously reminding them to eat well. Knowing the strategies to end toddler tantrums can be a big relief for every parent.
Handling Power Struggles: Strategies
1. Involve Your Child
Get him involved in deciding the menu for the rest of the week, and ask him to select the vegetables or fruits he likes to eat. Ask for his help at the time of meal preparations. For example, he can wash vegetables or pluck grapes from the stem. He can also be a help in measuring items or simple stirring stuff in the kitchen. The more he is involved in the planning and preparation, the more interested he will be at meal times.
2. Avoid Coaxing or Forcing Him
If he refuses to eat meals or throws tantrums when the food is served, avoid coaxing or forcing him to take one bite of the food. Instead, make it clear to him that you would not listen to any ‘no’ and he will have to finish the food served to him. Make him understand that he is a growing child, and has the liberty to choose what he wants to eat, but will have to follow the eating norms.
3. No Discussion about His Food Intake
You just have to plan a healthy meal and make sure that he eats at least one healthy item, and it can be his favorite item too. Do not force him to eat everything on the plate. Let him eat whatever he wants to. If he is hungry, he will eat more. Just set a dinner time for him so that he follows the same, and does not hope that he can have food anytime he wants to.
Solutions to a Child's Poor Eating Habits
1. Avoid Arguing Over Food
Sitting down to have food with family might result in fighting over food, especially with what's on the menu, who's eating what, and how much. To avoid such a scenario, try not to talk about food, instead simply serve the meal. Do not comment over his eating habits throughout the meal. Even if you have to, provide good reasons and healthy food choices to your toddler. Let him decide what and how much he wants to eat, and you take care of the menus and mealtimes.
2. Solving the Problem of Children Refusing to Eat
Rewarding him with an ice-cream since he finished his food from the plate is only going to develop a negative association with food. Instead of putting up a condition, you can offer more nutritious desserts along with ice-cream to encourage healthy eating habits in your toddler. Put at least one of his favorite food on his plate, and limit the discussion of his eating habits; you can simply clear the dining table when the meal time gets over. It is absolutely fine if he does not finish his food. He can have food after dinner as well. Be a good role model and let him see you enjoying your meals. When he sees so, he will be more interested in enjoying his meal.
3. Know If He is Eating Enough
Keep in mind that it’s he who will decide what to eat. If you decide for him, he won’t learn to understand when he's hungry and when he's done eating. This might result in problems such as obesity or overeating in later stages of life. Children are amazing at self-regulation. They may not eat one day, and eat a lot the next day.
We hope that the guidelines here will help you fix food-related tantrums in your child, and also help you in bonding with your little one over mealtimes. Take care! Read more
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Motherhood-three Cheers to Our Imperfections
What is the first thought that comes to our mind when you hear "Mom"? In a Devi Maa painting, a typical lady with several hands is depicted undertaking multi-tasking jobs. Believe me when I say that this is the only picture we portray in our culture as mothers. This isn't true. It's a trap. Our society has conditioned us to assume that our mothers are supermoms, but I do not deny that. As a mother of two beautiful children, I try to make them believe that I am a super mom who can do everything for them. However, I am convinced that this is not true motherhood.
Motherhood is a mixed bag of success and failure. Sometimes it's gloomy; sometimes it's bright; sometimes it's best; sometimes it's worse; sometimes it's exhausting and sometimes effortless. Mothers create an atmosphere of protection, happiness, and a good life for our kids. Despite being fatigued and exhausted, they live life to the fullest and with a strong determination.
However, they really want to go to the spa and relax for ten minutes. For a while, they want some own time. For the sake of their family and children, these mothers live their lives with restrictions and adjustments. We're not perfect moms. We are one-of-a-kind, with flaws in our perfections. Despite our exertions, stresses, management, and exhaustion, three cheers for our inbuilt determination, protection, and energy abilities.
Our primary need is our family. They are the essence of our being. Our children are the joy of our lives. It's our art of living that makes every mom unique and different. So let's pretend we're still the same women with so many hands doing so many different things. Because it is we who own it, we who are proud of it, and yes, we can and will do it regardless of what happens in the meantime. Keep in mind that you are the most attractive and wonderful mother for your children.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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Hot Summer, Cool Butter Milk and Your Kids, Lets make this a great combination
Summers are one of the hardest thing to bear. You will be definitely looking for a yummy drink to fight and defeat the summer heat.
Along with us our young ones are also troubled with this unbearable heat.
I know summer is here and our little ones decide to go on a hunger strike. They try to convince us that air can be consider food for them. Sometimes they also give up on drinking water.
Summers always makes us and our litte ones dehydrated and so we should be prepared to have options which will help us to keep hydrated and energetic.
A glass of buttermilk can help boost our energy levels up and also keeps us hydrated.
Buttermilk is rich in nutrients. It contains Calcium, Vitamin D and other Minerals.
It means that if your kid is not fond of milk, a glass of buttermilk will ensure that he/she gets his share of nutrients.
Butter milk is good for our digestive system. It aids digestion and is a good and efficient cure for loose motions. It helps to replenish the nutrients and water loss that occurs due to loose motion.
It prevents acidity.
Butter milk keeps our body cool in summers
Butter milk is chemical free and is the best alternative for aerated drinks.
If we prepare butter milk from freshly set yogurt then this will never cause any cold or cough to our little ones.
Even in summers when Butter milk is served it should be served at room temperature. Serving it chilled may cause cough or cold in kids.
It's always better if Butter milk is given to our kids during day time between 11 AM to 4 PM.
Few Nutritional benefits of buttermilk are as follows.
Calcium – essential for strong bones and teeth.
Vitamin D – helps the body absorb calcium
Protein – required for growth
Vitamin B12 – converts the glucose present in the blood to energy
Happy Drinking Read more
Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
16 hours ago
Q. can I take medicine pcm n citrazene in pregnancy fir sore throats n fever
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
11 hours ago
A. dear mom.
better to take tab pcm for time being n do take steam inhakation couple of tines a day, follpw good home renedies for cold, taje more rest .
Swati Kar Samanta has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
9 hours ago
Q. hi everyone good morning,
sorghum can I give to my 10 month baby is it safe or not please revert I waiting for your reply
Swati Kar Samanta
Mom of a 2 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. Yes but first give in very small quantity to judge the reaction of your baby.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts is it okay that the baby is kicking less than usual?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. Yes it is the what part is that your child is kicking if you feel that there is a movement of your child whether it is a cake or slight movement also you know that your child is doing fine so there is no problem in that if the movement is less it’s completely alright
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. Nasal blockage is very common, specially in small children because of the narrow nasal cavity. Any kind of saline drops like nasal clear will be helpful in dissolving the stuffy secretions, which can be taken out by vnasal aspirator gently also steam inhalation will be helpful also, try to avoid keeping the child directly under the fan.
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
4 hours ago
Q. 22 week pregnant,baby konse month me or din me kitni baar move kartaa he ,pls bataye abhi sirf 2, 3 baar hi hota he
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. hi
yes it's enough
and the frequency and timing may vary as we all are different
but yes, the frequency of feeling baby movements will increase now
please go for regular check-up to your gynecologist
and follow his or her suggestions
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. hi
need help and advice
my RT 18x16mm and LT 10x16mm ET 6.59
and did ovulation rest also showing fertility test C as if now , pls advice if we intercourse tomorrow then when will be my ovulation start.
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. You can check with an ovulation kit if it is positive then you can certainly go ahead with the conception because ovulation kit is going to give you 100% clarity whether you are ovulating or not with that you can try practising if you can conceive the same time
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