The most common concern of parents, is that their baby is not gaining enough weight and what they can do to make them gain more weight. Child’s weight is one part of its overall growth but it is not the only measuring criteria to check the child’s development. In fact baby’s growth and baby’s weight are two different things. If your baby is active, eating healthy food and has strong immunity system then, he is healthy.

You can check our guide to know what should be the ideal weight gain of the baby in the first year.

Here are some energy-dense foods that are perfect for gaining weight –

1. Milk – If you are breastfeeding then breast milk is the best choice up to 1 year and after 1 year 3 servings of cow’s milk can be given.
2. Banana – can be given to babies after 6 months of age. They are a great source of dietary fibre, potassium. In summer season, Mango can also be given.
3. Ragi – also known as finger millet or Nachni, is one of the best foods for weight gain in children. It is rich in calcium, protein, iron, dietary fiber, Vitamins B1, B2 and other minerals, which are required for your baby’s development.
4. Eggs – Start with egg yolk (yellow part) when your baby is 10 months old and give the white part of an egg only when the baby completes one year of its age. Eggs are high in protein, saturated fat and are packed with minerals and vitamin A and B12.
5. Potatoes/Sweet potatoes – can be given to babies after six months of age. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins like C and B6, minerals like phosphorus, manganese and are low in calories. Whereas sweet potatoes are a rich source of vitamin A (beta carotene), vitamin C, copper, manganese and vitamin B6. Also, they are a good source of potassium, magnesium, dietary fiber, phosphorus and are low in saturated fat.
6. Peaches – can be given after 6 months of age. Peaches are rich in dietary fiber, niacin, Vitamin A and particularly a good source of Vitamin C. Peach can be given as purees after 6 months and after 1 year as smoothies and milkshakes.
7. Peas – can also be given after 6 months. Peas are among the most nutritious vegetables that can be introduced as baby’s first solid food. It is very high in dietary fiber, thiamine, vitamin C and high in magnesium, niacin, phosphorous and Vitamins A, B6.
8. Ghee – is one of the best weight gaining food source. Ghee can be added in almost all the food that the baby takes after 7 months, with around 1 tsp of ghee per meal. Start with few drops of ghee at first and slowly increase the quantity. Ghee can sometimes be very heavy for the baby, so please be moderate in its usage. For best results, make your own homemade ghee that is free of preservatives and chemicals.
9. Cheese/Paneer – can be given after 8 months. Cheese is rich in phosphorous, calcium and selenium. Cheese cut as slices make a perfect finger food; you can also try serving fruit salad with cheese to your baby.
10. Avocado – is one of the richest source of vegetarian fat. It is also called butter fruit as its pulp is buttery in texture. Avocados can be used to make mashes, dips and salads. Avocado can also be given to babies below 1 year to include healthy fat in their diet.
11. Pulses – are high in calories and help your baby to gain healthy weight. Moong dal and urad dal are easy in digestion and are a really healthy option for your child. Pulses are rich in nutrients, protein, calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium. Pulses are low in fat and high in fibre.

PS: If the baby has just turned 6 months, please check with the pediatrician before you start on any of these foods. And do follow the 3 day test rule. Additionally you can check top tips to introduce solids to babies.