low weight, won't eat

[cheezelkat]

Hi,

My almost 9 month old has been breastfed since birth. He used to be in the 25th percentile for weight, but has now fallen to the very bottom off the charts (using the revised breastfed baby charts). He is in the 75th percentile for length.

He breastfeeds every 3 - 4 hours in the day, every 2 hours during the night. I've tried a variety of solids but he's refusing them all. He ats a maximum of 2 teaspoons a day of food. All my health nurses are telling me to feed him more and more but he simply won't eat!

What can I do?

[the pero clinic]

Dear Cheezelkat,

That sounds like quite an exhausting schedule for you! It’s also rather concerning that his weight is so low. I’m glad you have seen a child health nurse about it. Have you seen a doctor or paediatrician to rule out any other health issues that may be affecting his weight gain?

It is difficult to say why your bub is refusing solids – as there can be a number of reasons. A good place to start, however, is with interest and motivation. Ensure your bub has lots of opportunities to see you eat and enjoy foods – even eat purees and custards in front of him. Let him feed you with a spoon, give you a drink etc. Don’t be afraid to encourage him to taste purees off his hands if he is becoming wary of a spoon.

It might also be a good idea to discuss the idea of reducing breastfeeds with your health nurse or doctor. Your little one may not have the hunger to motivate his interest in eating if he can fill up on breastmilk.

Please see your doctor or a paediatric feeding specialist if your bub continues to refuse food and/or lose weight.

the pero clinic