Infant and child nutrition
The nutrition of the first years lays the foundations for lifelong health — and is one of the most common sources of parental worry. When to start solids? Is my child eating "enough"? What about the toddler who tries almost nothing?
Dr Mela completed the international Postgraduate Program in Pediatric Nutrition (PGPN) of Boston University School of Medicine and holds the "Early Nutrition Specialist" title from the Ludwig Maximilian University Hospital in Munich. The advice you'll get is practical, individualised and evidence-based — not trend-based.
Typical topics
- Infant feeding — breastfeeding and formula
- Starting solids, step by step
- Picky or selective eating in toddlers
- Nutrition for school-age children and adolescents
- Nutrition for breastfeeding mothers
- Gentle, non-stigmatising prevention and management of weight concerns
When do babies start solids?
Solids are introduced when the baby is developmentally ready, usually around 6 months. In some babies it may start between 4 and 6 months; the right moment is individualised after a pediatric assessment.
My toddler eats very few foods — should I worry?
Selective eating is common in toddlers and usually manageable with the right strategies. We assess growth and give you a concrete, realistic plan.
Do you advise on allergenic foods?
Yes — the timely, correct introduction of allergenic foods is discussed in detail, especially for babies with a history of atopy, an area of special interest for Dr Mela.