A 13-month-old baby needs optimum nutrition to cope with the needs of its growing body and increased activity levels. Most babies at this age tend to be picky eaters. Eating habits will likely change and become more unpredictable. Some days they may eat quite well, while other days they may seem completely uninterested in eating. Establishing a nutrition program can help limit unpredictability and eat a well-balanced diet.

NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF A 13-MONTH-OLD BABY

1. Protein: Your growing baby may need 13-15 grams of protein per day.

1. Carbohydrates: During this period, the daily carbohydrate requirement is approximately 130-150 grams.

1. Fat: It can get its dose of healthy fat from drinking 1 to 2 glasses of whole milk per day and consuming full-fat dairy products daily. It is important that your baby`s daily food intake includes about 3 to 4 teaspoons of healthy fats, such as canola oil.

1. Fiber: A 13-month-old baby needs about 19-20 grams of fiber per day.

1. Iron: The iron intake of a baby at this age should be around 7 mg per day.

1. Sodium: A 13-month-old baby may need about 1 g of sodium (1/2 teaspoon of salt) per day.

1. Water: Your 13-month-old baby may need around 1.3 liters of fluids daily, including milk, water, fresh juices, and other healthy fluids to ensure properly drinking water.

1. Vitamin D: A 13-month-old developing baby may need 400 IU (International Units) of vitamin D each day.

HOW MUCH DOES A 13-MONTH-OLD BABY EAT?

Every 13-month-old baby may be different and has calorie needs based on its physical activity level and unique needs. Most 13-month-olds need between 1000 and 1400 calories per day. Parents do not need to calculate calories daily to verify that their baby is consuming enough food. The stomach capacity of a 12-15 month old baby is 250-300 ml. What needs to be considered is that the baby gains weight satisfactorily, remains active and energetic, and its bowel movements (toilet frequency) are sufficient. Make sure your baby eat balanced and healthy meals every day. Include green vegetables, starchy vegetables, fruits, grains, protein, dairy products and healthy fats in your daily snacks and meals. Choose home-made foods over packaged processed foods.

Sample Nutrition Plan-1:

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Sample Nutrition Plan-2:

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Sample Nutrition Plan-3:

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NUTRITIONAL TIPS

1. Making a feeding plan can help you overcome your baby`s various feeding transitions.

1. Families can not break their babies’ requests and give them carbonated drinks and snacks, however, for the health of their babies, they should not give them such foods and should know how to say no.

1. Encourage your baby to feed itself. It may be a messy affair, but that`s how babies learn.

1. When planning a 13-month meal menu, try to cover all the major food groups and use your creativity to bring as much variety as you can.

1. Do not consume sugary and processed foods. Offer home-made alternatives for snacks.

1. Offer new foods regularly so your baby has a chance to develop a taste for different flavors and consistencies.

1. Parents can be a role model for their babies when it comes to developing healthy food choices and habits. Enjoying family mealtimes can motivate your baby to eat better and healthier.