Baby Feeding Problems

Special Feeding Issues

There may be times when your child needs special foods. Be sure to ask your doctor, nurse, or nutritionist if you have any questions about what your child should be eating or drinking.

Foods to help children gain weight:

• Cheese made with whole milk 
• Yogurts and puddings made with whole milk
• Peanut butter on bread or crackers after age 2
• Avocado
• Adding extra olive oil, cheese, yogurt, or milk powder to foods
• Ice cream
• Milk shakes made with whole milk, ice cream, banana, and peanut butter

If your baby is under 12 months and needs to gain weight, make sure that you are mixing his formula correctly. Offer it to him more often and for longer. If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or nurse. Foods to loosen hard stools:

• Lots of water, juices
• Raw fruits and vegetables
• Prunes
• Whole grains
• Soft, cooked fruit

Foods for children who are vomiting:

• Oral electrolyte maintenance solutions, like “Pedialyte” or “Rehydralyte,” if your doctor tells you to
• Popsicles
• Jello

Foods for children with diarrhea:

• Water and “Pedialyte” or “Rehydralyte,” if your doctor tells you to 
• Breastmilk
• Potatoes
• Rice
• Bananas
• Dry toast
• Applesauce

Clear liquids are:

• Water 
• Apple or white grape juice
• Clear soup or bouillon 
• “Pedialyte” or “Rehydralyte,” if your doctor tells you to
• Jello