It is common for toddlers to lose appetite occasionally. And although it is generally not a cause for concern, you should consult the doctor if it is accompanied by signs of chronic illnesses or weight loss (1). Also, persistent loss of appetite can delay the growth of babies and make them prone to other diseases. Read on to know about appetite loss in toddlers and ways to help them regain it.
Is It Normal For Toddlers To Have Appetite Loss?
Toddlers tend to have erratic appetite due to their growth spurts and psychological development. There may be a variable intake of meals in a day, as well. If your toddler appears healthy and seems to be growing at a normal pace, then there is probably no reason to be concerned about their poor appetite (2). However, parents need to know the reasons behind the lack of appetite in toddlers (3).
What Are The Causes Of Loss Of Appetite In Toddlers?
The following are the common reasons behind the loss of appetite among toddlers (2) (4) (5) (6). You can usually identify the cause behind the toddler’s weak appetite through observation and experience. However, it is good to seek medical help under certain circumstances.
When To Seek Medical Help?
See a doctor if you experience any of the following situations with your toddler (7) (4).
Loss of appetite for a month Loss of weight No weight gain in six months Gagging and vomiting of food Eats only a few foods Lethargy and lack of energy Other health issues, such as fever, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, and cough You observe jaundice or yellow-colored urine in the child
Parents should see a doctor if they suspect that their child is not eating a normal amount of food and may have an eating disorder. An eating disorder can cause difficulty in consuming adequate food and leads to a poor diet. The toddler may also consistently insist on eating only one type of food. An undiagnosed eating disorder may cause a chronic loss of appetite and affect a toddler’s growth (8).
How To Get Your Toddler’s Appetite Back?
Here are some ways to encourage your toddler to eat properly and overcome the loss of appetite (2) (9). You can also let the toddler watch you prepare meals. Let the toddler play their part, such as taking out the vegetables from the basket or washing the fruits. Making food interesting and fun is an excellent way to improve a toddler’s eating habits and resume a normal diet.
How Much Food Is Enough For Toddlers?
During toddler hood, children usually eat solid food while also having breast milk or formula. Consider the following points about the quantity of food your toddler would need (10) (11) (12).
Toddlers need about three quarters to a cup of food per meal. There should be three to four meals a day. You can include one to two snacks between the meals. Once the toddler starts walking without support, you can serve four to five small meals a day and two snacks in between each meal. Serve one to two cups of milk in a day.
Toddlers can require between 1,000 to 1,400 calories a day, depending on their age and health. Do not hesitate to speak to your nutritionist or doctor to determine how much your child should eat to prevent any nutritional deficiency. Below is a general estimate of the amount of food your toddler needs across various food groups. Stick to homemade snacks such as fruits, boiled vegetables, and baked items with low sugar and fat. Never give a toddler carbonated beverages and energy drinks since they contain surplus sugar and potentially harmful compounds.
Things To Avoid If A Toddler Refuses To Eat
Do not resort to the following methods to stimulate a toddler’s lost appetite.
Force-feed the toddler. Spoon-feed the toddler unless they are unwell. Always encourage a toddler to eat themselves. Scold or punish if they do not feel like eating something. Bribe a toddler to eat a particular food. They might eventually become more interested in the treats rather than healthy meals. Serving high-sugar commercial snacks.
Force them to eat new foods anyway. Try another day or whenever your toddler seems receptive to trying it. Force a toddler to sit on a chair/highchair if they have not finished their meal. It can make the toddler perceive mealtime as punishment.
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