Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have a 16-month-old who still breastfeeds at night. He would much rather breastfeed during the day than eat a proper meal, but I try to restrict breastfeeding to bedtime while I give him formula twice a day as a snack. He used to eat very well, but suddenly, at around 11 months, he became more interested in breast milk. Most days for the entire day, he will only eat one and a half to two meals with 5 ounces of Nan 3 milk formula. He does not eat a lot of food either, no matter how many times I give it to him. Is this a phase, or is something else possibly going on?
I do not know if it would be best to wean him off breast milk completely. Will this help me to eat more whole meals?
People are telling me to breastfeed him for two years because of the health benefits, but I am worried his nutrition is going to be heavily compromised because he is not eating well and has not been for a while now. I can confirm he is not ill; he just prefers breast milk.
Do I wean him off completely, or is there another solution? Please help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
Offer a variety of nutritious foods at meals and snacks, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein-rich foods, and dairy. Be patient, and continue to expose your child to different flavors and textures, even if he does not immediately accept them.
If you are considering weaning your child off breast milk, it can be done gradually. You could start by gradually reducing breastfeeding sessions and increasing your formula or solid food intake. This process allows both you and your child to adjust gradually.
Every child is different, and some may naturally wean themselves off breastfeeding at different ages. Pay attention to your child's cues and preferences while also ensuring he receives adequate nutrition.
I hope this information will help you.
Kindly revert in case of further queries.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Veerabhadrudu Kuncham
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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