Why Your Baby Refuses Solid Foods: Tips for Parents

Children refuse to eat complementary foods?

My child (male) started with breastfeeding and is now 9 months old, but his weight is only 8 kilograms.
Is this normal? Since he was 6 months old, I have been feeding him complementary foods (such as rice porridge and cereal), but for the past two months, he cries when he sees solid food or doesn't eat much.
Could this be related to teething? I am now considering weaning him, but he completely refuses to drink cow's milk.
Should I take him to see a doctor for an examination? Thank you.

Xiao Xian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/01

Dr. Lin Wenxian reply Pediatrics

Dear Xiaoxian,
I am pleased to hear about mothers who are able to breastfeed for up to 9 months.
Keep up the good work! The nutrition provided by breast milk is superior to any formula, and the World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for up to two years, so there is no need to stop breastfeeding.

It seems that the mother is concerned about the baby's weight.
As long as the baby is growing along their growth curve, there is no issue with their weight.
The mother can refer to the growth chart in the child health handbook for guidance.
When the baby receives the measles vaccine at nine months, the physician can also assess their growth and development.
Regarding the introduction of solid foods, the primary goal before the age of one is to help the baby gradually become familiar with various foods and to develop chewing skills, avoiding the development of picky eating or overly strong flavor preferences.
Therefore, creating a pleasant mealtime environment is important, and it can be beneficial to eat together with adults to spark the baby's interest in food.

At nine months, children can try some soft meats, vegetables, fish, mashed potatoes, noodles, and more.
Foods can be prepared in a pureed or finely chopped form.
Nine-month-old children also have better motor control and can attempt to grasp small, soft pieces of food with their hands or drink from a cup under parental supervision.

When introducing a new food, it may take 7 to 8 tries for the child to become accustomed to it, so parents should be patient and take a gradual approach without rushing.

Here are some websites related to breastfeeding that mothers can explore for discussion groups.
I also recommend that mothers join local breastfeeding support groups, as they can gain valuable insights from the experiences of other breastfeeding mothers.
Baby's Garden: http://www.babysgarden.org/main.php
Taiwan Breastfeeding Association: http://www.breastfeeding.org.tw/phpBB2/
Bureau of Health Promotion Breastfeeding Website: http://www.bhp.doh.gov.tw/breastfeeding/index02.htm
Taichung Veterans General Hospital Pediatric Department - Breastfeeding Section: http://www.bfvghtc.org/
Wishing you good health and all the best!

Reply Date: 2005/02/01

More Info

It's understandable to feel concerned when your baby refuses solid foods, especially at 9 months old and only weighing 8 kilograms. First, let's address your concerns about weight and feeding habits. The average weight for a 9-month-old boy typically ranges from about 7.5 to 10.5 kilograms, so your child's weight is within the lower end of the normal range. However, it's essential to consider not just weight but also growth patterns, developmental milestones, and overall health.

When it comes to introducing solid foods, many parents encounter challenges, and it's not uncommon for babies to refuse them, especially if they are used to breastfeeding. At around 6 months, babies start to show interest in solid foods, but their acceptance can vary significantly. If your baby has been crying or refusing to eat solid foods for the past two months, it could indeed be related to teething. Teething can cause discomfort, making babies less inclined to try new textures or flavors.
Here are some tips to help encourage your baby to accept solid foods:
1. Patience and Timing: Try to feed your baby when they are calm and not overly hungry or tired. Sometimes, a relaxed environment can make a significant difference.

2. Variety and Texture: Experiment with different textures and flavors. Some babies prefer smoother purees, while others might enjoy slightly chunkier foods. You can also try mixing familiar tastes with new ones to make them more appealing.

3. Involve Them: Allow your baby to explore food with their hands. Self-feeding can be a fun and engaging way for them to interact with solid foods. Offer soft finger foods like ripe bananas, cooked sweet potatoes, or soft-cooked vegetables.

4. Positive Reinforcement: Make mealtime a positive experience. Use encouraging words and smiles, and avoid pressuring your baby to eat. If they refuse, it’s okay to try again later.

5. Routine: Establish a consistent mealtime routine. Babies thrive on predictability, and having set times for meals can help them anticipate and prepare for eating.

6. Consult a Pediatrician: Since your baby is not drinking milk and is showing signs of refusal towards solid foods, it would be wise to consult a pediatrician. They can assess your baby's growth, nutritional needs, and overall health. If necessary, they may refer you to a pediatric nutritionist for further guidance.

7. Hydration: Ensure your baby is staying hydrated, especially if they are not drinking milk. Offer water in a sippy cup, which can also help them transition away from breastfeeding.

8. Teething Relief: If teething is a concern, consider offering teething toys or cold, soft foods that may soothe their gums.

9. Avoid Force-Feeding: If your baby refuses food, don’t force them to eat. This can create negative associations with mealtime. Instead, offer food again later or the next day.

10. Monitor Growth: Keep track of your baby's growth and development. If you notice any significant changes in weight or behavior, bring these up during your pediatrician visit.

In summary, while it can be frustrating when your baby refuses solid foods, it's essential to approach the situation with patience and creativity. Consulting with a healthcare professional will provide you with tailored advice and reassurance regarding your baby's nutritional needs and growth. Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Keep trying different strategies, and don't hesitate to seek help when needed.

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