Introduction
As children move from breast or formula toward family meals, good nutrition keeps growth and development on track. Variety, routine and patience matter more than any single "super food".
What milk, when
Breast milk or infant formula is the main drink in the first year, alongside increasing complementary foods from six months. From about 12 months, cows' milk can be given as a main drink, with continued breastfeeding if you wish. Offer milk in a cup rather than a bottle as your child grows.
A balanced plate
Build meals around a starchy food (rice, roti, potato), a protein (dal, beans, egg, meat, fish, paneer), and colourful vegetables and fruit. Include a source of healthy fat and iron-rich foods. Offer three meals and one to two small snacks a day.
Drinks and treats
Water is the best drink between meals. Limit sugary drinks, packaged juice and salty or fried snacks — they fill little tummies without nourishing them. Sweets are occasional treats, not daily foods.
Handling fussy eating
Toddlers naturally eat less than babies relative to size, and appetites vary day to day. Offer a variety without pressure, eat together, and keep mealtimes calm. Children often need to see a new food many times before they accept it.
Build lifelong habits
Regular meals, family eating, water over sugary drinks, and active play set up healthy patterns that protect against both undernutrition and later obesity.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Ask your health worker if your child is not growing well or is a very limited eater.
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Helpful links for parents
Buy soft baby diaper online | Why BabyCo is best diaper in Nepal | Use BabyCo size finder to get the perfect fit. | Plan monthly diaper packs | Find stores in Nepal
