Patient's question:
Medical history: A 14-month-old female baby, weighing 7 pounds at birth, now weighs 16 pounds. She is doing well with eating and drinking milk, but her weight gain is very slow. Her spirits are good, and she walked independently at 1 year old.Past treatment and effectiveness: The doctor said she has malnutrition.
What help is needed: I want to know the reason for her slow weight gain and whether it affects her development. Thank you.
Doctor's answer:
In this case, it is usually caused by introducing complementary foods too late. Generally, complementary foods should be gradually introduced when the child is around four months old. This can start with things like rice water and juice, and then gradually transition to porridge, noodles, eggs, and meat. If complementary foods are introduced too late, the child misses the window when they are most interested in eating, and by the time they are over a year old, their eating habits may not have been established. If the nutrition from milk is not sufficient or if picky eating habits develop, the child may be prone to malnutrition.Suggestions:
First, it's important to gradually establish healthy eating habits and correct any habits. Complementary foods should be introduced slowly, and milk intake should be reduced gradually. You can also visit a hospital to check for trace elements. If zinc deficiency is detected, appetite may improve with gradual supplementation. If iron deficiency is present, a blood test should be conducted. If anemia is confirmed, iron supplements or blood-boosting medications may be necessary.