Overweight Babies: Prevention
A fat baby is not necessarily a healthy baby. From the beginning, try to teach your child to stop eating before she reaches a point of satiation. By satiation, we mean a sense of complete fullness and a reluctance to eat another bite. If your family has a problem with easy weight gain, you can try to prevent your baby from becoming a roly-poly by not feeding for the wrong reasons.
- Don't assume that a crying baby is always hungry. Most crying babies simply want to be held and cuddled.
- Don't assume a sucking baby is hungry. Your baby may just want a pacifier or help in finding her thumb.
- Don't assume your baby is hungry every time she fusses in hot weather. Your baby may just be thirsty and need some extra water.
- Don't insist your baby finish every bottle, finish each jar of baby food, or even that she clean her plate.
- Don't give your child food to distract her. Instead, offer toys when you need some free time. From the beginning, help your infant distinguish hunger from her other needs. Eating habits are hard to change.
If you have other questions about your baby's weight, consult your healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.
Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D. FAAP
Last Review: 6/1/2008
Last Revised: 6/1/2000
Copyright 1994-2008 Barton Schmitt, M.D. Parent Advice Messages.
