Last updated: January 2026
Is it normal for a 7-12 month old baby to refuse food? YES - this is one of the most common concerns parents have, and often completely normal!
Between 7-12 months, babies are going through massive developmental changes - learning to crawl, stand, and explore the world. Food becomes less interesting than everything else happening around them. Add teething pain, growth pattern changes, and the natural decrease in appetite after the rapid first 6 months, and you have a recipe for meal-time battles. Take a breath, mama - most of the time, this phase passes on its own.
Watch: Baby Spitting Milk after Feeding? Know if this is a Cause for Concern | Babynama Child Care
| Food | Why It Works | How to Give |
|---|---|---|
| Khichdi | Soft, easy to digest | With ghee, mashed well |
| Ragi Porridge | Sweet, smooth | With mashed banana |
| Suji Halwa | Sweet, familiar taste | Small portions, with ghee |
| Mashed Dal-Chawal | Familiar Indian taste | Well-cooked, mashed |
| Curd/Dahi | Cool, soothing | Especially during teething |
| Banana | Sweet, soft | Mashed or as finger food |
| Sweet Potato | Naturally sweet | Mashed or as soft sticks |
Seek immediate care if:
Schedule an appointment if:
What doctors typically recommend:
| Age | Breast Milk/Formula | Solids | Eating Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7-8 months | 4-5 feeds/day | 2-3 meals | Learning textures, may refuse new foods |
| 9-10 months | 3-4 feeds/day | 3 meals + 1-2 snacks | More interested in finger foods |
| 11-12 months | 3-4 feeds/day | 3 meals + 2 snacks | Starting to eat family food, very distracted |
Remember: Breast milk or formula is still the primary nutrition source until 1 year. Solids are for practice and supplementation.
Expert Insight: Dr. Sumitra explains: 'Every baby's poop schedule is different. Some go 7 times a day, some once a week - both can be normal.'
A: Very normal! This often happens around 8-9 months when babies become more mobile and interested in exploring. It can also coincide with teething. Keep offering food without pressure, ensure adequate breast milk/formula, and if baby is otherwise happy and active, don't worry.
A: Appetite syrups are generally not recommended for babies under 1 year. First rule out medical causes, fix feeding routines, and ensure baby isn't filling up on milk. If appetite loss persists, consult your pediatrician.
A: This is common between 7-9 months. Start by reducing one breastfeed and offering solids when baby is slightly hungry. Try different textures - some babies prefer finger foods over purees. Be patient - it can take time.
A: Check these signs:
If these are okay, baby is likely getting enough.
A: Teething can definitely reduce appetite for a few days. Baby may prefer cold foods (chilled cucumber, cold curd) and liquids over solid foods. This is temporary. If it lasts more than a week or baby has fever, consult your doctor.
A: Gagging is normal and protective - it prevents choking. However, some babies develop an aversion to textures. Try smoother textures, then gradually increase. If baby gags on everything or seems to have pain while swallowing, see your doctor.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. For personalized advice about your baby's appetite, consult with Babynama's pediatric experts on WhatsApp.
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