Foods that make baby gain weight

15 Foods to Make Baby Gain Weight – Cafe Baby®

• by Jeannie Marrugo
• Mar 10, 2022

If you need to add foods to Baby’s diet to help them in gaining weight, be sure to add these to your grocery list or to your next Café Baby order. Sometimes every extra calorie counts in their tiny bellies. 

If your child needs to be on high calorie fortified infant formula or breast milk, please talk to your pediatrician first. You need to know the right recipe to prevent an excess intake of nutrients to prevent constipation and dehydration.

1. Avocado

Avocados are a sugar-free healthy choice that contributes 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat and 0.5 gram of polyunsaturated fat per 25-gram serving to Baby's diet. 

2. Kidney Beans

Kidney beans are a plant-based protein, or non-heme iron source, rich in most B-vitamins, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. They also contain two that are commonly deficient in babies: folate and iron.

3. Eggs

Not only are eggs a prime source of the best-quality proteins after breast milk, but one egg contains thirteen essential minerals like copper, zinc, selenium, calcium, iron, cholesterol, fat, fatty acids, and vitamins like vitamin D, B12, E, choline and folate.

4. Bananas

Bananas are loaded with nutrients like potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, folate, niacin, and vitamin B6 and can help babies gain weight by increasing calorie density.

5. Mango

Mangoes are rich in fibres and digestive enzymes, which means Baby won't have any trouble going number two. Mangoes are very low in fat but contain lots of good calories which can help Baby gain weight.

6. Lentils

Lentils are low in sodium and saturated fat, and high in potassium, fiber, folate, and plant chemicals called polyphenols that have antioxidant activity.

7. Ground Meat

Did you know it's important to add iron- and zinc-rich foods to Baby's diet? At about six months of age, Baby starts to run out of their natural iron stores that they were born with. Ground meats are an important source of heme iron, which is more easily absorbed into the body than non-heme iron (plant-based protein). 

8. Whole Milk Yogurt

The best option is plain, unsweetened, pasteurized yogurt (regular or Greek) made from whole milk and containing "live cultures. " Yogurt made from whole milk is best for Baby because they need the calories and fat in full-fat dairy products.

9. Full-fat Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese has plenty of healthy fats and protein, plus some B vitamins, calcium, selenium, and zinc. To avoid loads of salt, look for options that are:

• Pasteurized
• Low in sodium (ideally less than 100mg sodium per serving)
• Made from whole milk
• Without added preservatives or sugars

10. Mashed Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes provide nothing but good calories, making it a healthy food option for Baby. The high amount of calories in sweet potatoes help in weight gain and physical development in children.

11. Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes might be mostly white, but that doesn’t mean they don't contain nutrients. They are are a source of fiber-rich carbs, which are one of the best sources of fuel for Baby’s brain. 

12. Mashed Butternut Squash

The Omega-3 fats that are found in butternut squash are present in the form of alpha-linolenic acid, and this is what helps to reduce inflammation.

13. Peanut or Almond Butters

Nut butters can be a source of fibre, protein and healthy fats, as well as minerals such as magnesium, calcium, iron and vitamin E. If you're worried about food allergies, check out our blog series about starting solids and allergies. 

14. Fresh Goat Cheese

Fresh goat cheese has lots of protein and healthy fats, plus calcium, copper, iron, and vitamins A, B2, and B6—essential nutrients to power your baby’s growth. When selecting goat cheese for Baby, look for a cheese that is:

• Pasteurized
• Low sodium (less than 100mg per serving)
• Whole fat

15. Cooked Quinoa

Quinoa is a good source of calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium. It's also a great source of Omega 3, 6, 9 fatty acids, which are good for Baby's brain and eye development.

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Sources:

https://patient. uwhealth.org/healthfacts/343

https://solidstarts.com/foods/kidney-beans/

https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/banana-for-babies-when-to-introduce-health-benefits-and-more/#How_Much_Banana_Can_a_Baby_Eat_in_a_Day 

https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/mango-for-babies-health-benefits-and-recipes/#Nutrition_Facts_of_Mango

https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/lentils/

https://newwaysnutrition.com/babies/meat-baby/

https://solidstarts.com/foods/cottage-cheese/

https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/sweet-potato-for-baby-benefits-and-recipes/#Nutritional_Value_of_Sweet_Potato

https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/butternut-squash-for-babies-health-benefits-and-recipes/#Nutritional_Value_of_Butternut_Squash

https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/baby-feeding/when-can-babies-eat-potatoes#benefits

https://www.srnutrition.co.uk/2021/04/peanut-butter-for-babies-when-to-introduce-it-and-which-type/ 

https://solidstarts. com/foods/goat-cheese/

https://www.momjunction.com/articles/is-quinoa-safe-for-babies_00120055/

The Best Foods for Your Baby to Gain Weight

It’s hard to imagine that your little one could be any cuter — but you might be wondering whether they’re growing as fast as they should.

If you’re worried that your baby might weigh too little, bear in mind that newborns normally lose 3–7% (and up to 10%) of their birth weight in their first few days of life, which they regain by about the end of their second week (1, 2, 3).

Until they reach the 6-month mark, infants should gain about 1 pound (0.45 kg) or more each month. They should weigh about triple their birth weight around the end of their first year (1, 2, 3).

Keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and a healthy baby may have different weight gain numbers depending on their birth weight, rate of linear growth, and other factors.

You can ask your baby’s pediatrician about weight gain at any time, such as at their well-baby exam.

If you and your healthcare practitioner have ruled out medical reasons for your baby’s slow weight gain, such as heart or digestive issues, consider feeding them calorie-dense whole foods. These may encourage healthy weight gain (4).

Here are the 7 of the best foods to help your baby gain weight. We’ve grouped them below by age group.

A baby under 6 months that’s putting on less weight than average can be troubling. Since all or most of their calories at this point come from breastmilk, formula, or both, what you can control right now is how often they feed and whether they’re getting enough (4).

1. Breastmilk or infant formula — often and enough

Breastfed newborns will feed every 2–3 hours, so account for 8–12 or more feedings per day for the first 4 months.

Be sure to let your infant fully empty your breast. One reason this is recommended is because hindmilk, which comes out last during a feeding, may be richer than foremilk, which comes out first.

Let your baby feed fully, until your breast feels very soft. This will ensure they’re getting all the milk available, and it sends your body a message to make more.

You can try consuming foods that are thought to increase breastmilk production. These include lactation teas or bars with fenugreek, blessed thistle, or fennel. Oatmeal and dark beer may also help. Still, more research on these solutions is needed (5).

Additionally, avoid wearing tight-fitting bras or tops.

Until your baby begins solid foods, they will not need to drink water. Offer them breastmilk or formula instead to maximize the number of calories you’re getting into their tiny tummies.

Your doctor may also ask about any latching issues and investigate any underlying medical issues that may affect your baby’s nutrient absorption or metabolism at this age.

Speak with a pediatrician for guidance if you’re considering whether to supplement breastfeeding with formula or wondering which formula to choose.

These choices are complicated and depend on many personal factors, and a doctor can help you make informed decisions. You may also consider talking with a lactation consultant.

Most babies will start to show readiness to eat solid foods around the 6-month mark.

Speak with your healthcare professional about when to start your baby on complementary solid foods.

2. Avocado

Whether you’re taking a baby-led weaning approach, a more traditional puréed foods style, or a combination of the two — avocado is a great transitional food for babies starting on solids.

What’s more, avocado’s healthy fats and relatively mild taste make this a great food for when you’re trying to get your baby to gain weight (6, 7).

Mash it up or serve it in thick spears. You can also add it to other foods, such as rice cereal or another fruit.

It’s a good idea to introduce new foods one at a time. This way, if your child has any sort of allergic reaction, you have a better sense of what might have caused it.

3. Oatmeal

Oatmeal cereal is another wonderfully rich food that’s easy to add to your baby’s diet.

To make it, blend plain oats cooked in water, adding water as needed to achieve a soupy texture. To make it heartier, cook and thin out the oatmeal with formula or breastmilk instead. Gradually thicken it as your baby gets more comfortable.

Oatmeal packs lots of fiber, including beta glucan, which is one form of soluble dietary fiber. It promotes the growth of your baby’s beneficial gut bacteria and may encourage bacterial diversity in the gut (8).

What’s more, oatmeal is fairly neutral in taste, which makes it easy to combine with other hearty, healthy foods. For instance, you can spoon in puréed fruit and cinnamon for more flavor.

Avoid honey

Be sure to never feed a baby under 1-year-old honey, as doing so can put them at risk of botulism and pose a choking hazard (9).

4. Peanut butter

Peanut butter packs protein and fats — both of which can encourage weight gain in your baby.

Keep in mind that peanuts are one of the 8 allergens that can cause the most serious allergic reactions in the United States (10).

The latest evidence supports feeding infants as young as 6 months foods that commonly cause allergies. This includes peanuts. Research suggests this approach may actually help prevent allergies from developing (11, 12).

You’ll want to introduce allergenic foods methodically, always one at a time and introducing new, higher-risk foods at least a week apart.

It’s important to feed these to your baby on a regular basis — always watching for signs of allergies, including hives, redness around the mouth, or wheezing. If this occurs, seek medical help immediately (11, 12).

Never feed your baby peanut butter straight from the jar, as doing so may pose a choking hazard.

The best way to feed them natural peanut butter, or any other type of nut butter, is to blend them with either warm water, applesauce, breast milk or formula, or — if you’ve already introduced dairy — yogurt.

You can add it to oatmeal for added richness.

If your child is at a higher risk of allergies or has had eczema, speak with a healthcare professional before feeding them any nut butters or higher-risk foods.

They may advise waiting until they’re older and then want to supervise this in their office or suggest an allergy test first (13).

8 most common food allergies

• cow’s milk
• eggs
• fish
• crustacean shellfish, like shrimp
• wheat
• soy
• peanuts
• tree nuts

Learn more about food allergies here.

5. Eggs

Eggs are another powerhouse food that’s great for infants and adults alike. They provide a filling combination of fats and protein. They’re often gentle on the stomach, versatile, and easy to prepare (14,15).

Be mindful because this is another common allergenic food that you’ll want to introduce slowly and methodically. Keep an eye open for an allergic reaction. Seek immediate emergency care if your baby is wheezing or having trouble breathing (11, 12).

Once eggs are a mainstay in your baby’s diet, you could try scrambling them and sprinkling in some cheese and veggies for added nutrients.

You can also use eggs in other dishes. For example, try adding them to rice with cheese and veggies for some quick rice patties, then cut these into strips to serve.

You certainly don’t have to hold off until the 9-month mark to introduce fish, but it might be easier for babies to handle the texture at this age than earlier in life.

6. Fish

Fish delivers protein and healthy fats that are vital to your little one’s growth. Do be mindful to seek out low mercury fish, like salmon, herring, and trout (16).

Furthermore, these and other fish contain brain-nourishing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that’s essential for proper brain development in early childhood (17).

Pair fish with a rich lemon full fat yogurt dip or marinara sauce for added nutrients.

It seems counterintuitive, but when babies hit their 12-month milestone, you may find they’re eating less.

This is because their growth rate slows. In fact, most toddlers will only put on about 5 pounds between their first and second birthday (18).

Of course, they’re still growing and needing lots of nourishment — they are simply not growing quite as rapidly as they were in those first 12 months of life.

So, don’t be worried if your champion eater suddenly slows down or plateaus at this phase. If they still have the energy to play and seem alert, they’re probably doing just fine.

7. Olive or avocado oils

Your toddler should get a fair amount of healthy fats. In fact, 30–40% of your toddler’s calories should come from fats (19).

They need roughly 1,000-1400 calories each day at this age, so that translates to about 30–50 grams of fat per day (19).

If your toddler needs a bit more support, consider adding a splash of olive oil or avocado oil to their food, about 1/4–1/2 tablespoon (4–7 mL) to start. You can add it into a bowl of soup or hummus or sop some whole grain bread into it.

Take care not to feed your baby too much oil, as doing so could cause gastric upset or diarrhea.

If your baby has energy to play and is tracking along with developmental milestones, they’re probably growing just fine.

Unless a healthcare professional has identified an issue with your baby’s weight, you probably don’t need to worry.

Keep in mind that babies born prematurely and those with special health needs may not track along with general growth charts.

That said, parental instinct is real. Always voice any concerns with your child’s healthcare professional. Take note of what exactly you observe that troubles you, in as much detail as possible.

For example, you could record the times, dates, and amounts and types of food your child has eaten.

If your baby seems lethargic, is refusing to feed, or isn’t meeting developmental milestones, you should make an appointment to speak with a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician.

In addition to a medical evaluation, they may refer you to another specialist, lactation consultant, occupational therapist, or dietitian.

Your little one’s early nutrition can have lifelong impacts. Making sure they’re getting enough to eat — and growing enough — is a concern for many parents.

If your child is not tracking along or suddenly not feeding as well as they used to, speak with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying causes. Do keep in mind that babies’ food intake normally slows at around the 12-month mark.

There are many wonderful, nourishing foods to help support your baby’s growth — including eggs, avocados, and peanut butter.

If they’re younger, or under 6 months, try to provide enough opportunities for them to breastfeed or drink enough formula according to their hunger cues.

All that said, if your little one seems alert, is meeting the developmental milestones for their age, and has enough energy to play, they’re probably getting enough to eat.

Just one thing

Try this today: The article 21 Homemade Baby Food Recipes is a great resource with tips on how to make a variety of tasty, nutritious meals for your baby once they start eating solid foods.

What foods make the baby gain weight in the womb

During the period of intrauterine development, the fetus is completely dependent on the mother's lifestyle. A woman throughout her pregnancy is obliged to monitor her health, give up bad habits and carefully consider nutrition. The correct diet, filled with a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals, is switched at the planning stage. What and how much should a pregnant woman eat so that the child does not lack nutrients, and his body weight remains within the normal range?

Contents [ show ]

• How the diet of a pregnant woman affects the weight gain of the fetus
• What foods affect the weight gain of the child in the womb
• What should be the mother's menu
  • Diet of the expectant mother by trimesters
  • What to eat with a lack of mass body weight of the fetus
  • Diet for overweight fetus
• Does a strong weight gain of a pregnant woman affect the fetus
• To summarize

How does the diet of a pregnant woman affect fetal weight gain

It is important to eat right at any stage of life. But pregnancy is a special period for a woman when the body needs a balanced menu. All foods that the expectant mother eats have a direct impact on the development of the fetus and an increase in its anthropometric indicators.

In general, a pregnant woman's diet is not much different from a normal healthy diet. It is recommended to increase the total calorie content by no more than 300 kcal and eat fractionally. Eating in small portions 5-6 times a day, the mother provides the fetus with a constant supply of useful trace elements.

If a woman eats little and limited food during pregnancy, a mechanism is “launched” in the child's body that is responsible for the maximum assimilation of micronutrients from a minimum amount of food. This is fraught with the threat of obesity in adulthood - in conditions of sufficient food, the body will consume substances in such a way that they are not enough.

Why does the weight of the baby in the womb depend on what and how much the mother eats? Child and maternal organisms are inextricably linked from the moment of the birth of a new life until childbirth. Whatever a woman eats, her child gets. With a lack of nutrients, the baby does not gain weight, its internal organs and systems do not develop according to the standards. If a pregnant woman abuses fatty, high-calorie foods or fast food, the fetus accumulates subcutaneous fat too quickly, which is fraught with serious complications during childbirth.

What foods affect the baby's weight gain in the womb

Many pregnant women only hear from their doctor about the need to change their diet when the scale shows a large increase or after detecting an increase in blood glucose levels. If a woman does not gain weight or her weight does not increase according to the standards with each week of pregnancy, gynecologists are in no hurry to sound the alarm. Note that both states are invalid. During the gestation period, a woman is obliged to monitor her diet in order to avoid health problems - both her own and the baby she is carrying.

To avoid excessive weight gain by the fetus, the expectant mother will have to give up a number of unhealthy and high-calorie foods. In the "black list":

• fast food: french fries, hamburgers, pizza and other types of fast food;
• chips, crackers, snacks;
• smoked products;
• preserves and preserves;
• pastries, baked goods and sweets in large quantities;
• semi-finished products.

Avoid high salt intake during pregnancy. Salty food causes water retention, which leads to an increase in the load on the kidneys. This causes swelling, increased pressure and other health problems for the mother and child.

What should be the mother's menu

Expectant mother must be responsible for the preparation of the daily diet. If a woman does not receive enough nutrients from food, this is fraught with nutritional deficiencies for the fetus. Because of this, during the gestation period, the child is more susceptible to the development of autoimmune reactions, in the future he is threatened with metabolic problems. The task of the mother is to provide the fetus with all the conditions for stable weight gain and development. In addition, the weight gained by the mother and the fetus depends on how safely, quickly and easily the birth will take place.

Nutritional deficiency is a protein-energy deficiency that negatively affects the development and functioning of all systems of the human body.

During pregnancy, a woman should eat for two. The menu is thought out so that daily food covers the daily need for valuable substances.