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What Causes Loss Of Appetite In Children?

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Posted on Sat, 1 Aug 2015
Question: my son id not eating food, is there any reason and any tips...
doctor
Answered by Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
I won't get worried if he is growing normally

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for the query

First of all I would like to know the age and weight of your son.
If the weight is appropriate for age I won't get overly worried.
Most of the children are very choosy and fussy regarding their eating behaviour.
The role of parents are very important in feeding the baby.
Please let me know if this eating problem has arisen recently or for long duration.Also I would like to know if he avoids any particular food or his overall diet is poor.

Waiting for your reply.
Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Follow up: Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain (6 minutes later)
yes. he is 2 years old and weight is 11 kg
doctor
Answered by Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain (47 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Weight is normal for age

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for follow up

If we plot the weight for age growth chart the weight of 11 kg is between the 25th to 50th centile.
The weight below 3rd percentile is considered to be abnormal.
In the chart the growth should be between 25th to 75th centile.
I wont get overly worried as his growth is above 25th centile. But ideally the weight should be above 50th centile, so I suggest you to follow these tips

1)Offer a variety of healthy food choices so that your child can try different things.

2)Offer several fruit and vegetable options every day. Give an option for choosing fruits and vegetables that he enjoys eating.

3)Provide healthy sources of protein, such as fish, eggs, nuts, and meats like chicken.

4)Serve whole-grain breads and cereals.

5)Offer full-fat milk, cheese, and other dairy products.To meet the calorie demand add oil,ghee,butter to the food items.

6)Avoid carbonated drink, flavored syrups,fast foods and junk foods.Avoid using treats or junk food as rewards or comfort.

7)Eat together at the table, not in front of the TV.

8)Encourage your child to eat slowly and to stop eating when he or she starts to feel full.Don’t force him for feeding.

9)At last be a good role model for your child. Get the whole family involved in eating a healthier diet.

I hope this helps.
I shall be glad to answer if you have any more query.
Regards
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain

Pediatrician, Cardiology

Practicing since :2006

Answered : 2074 Questions

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What Causes Loss Of Appetite In Children?

Brief Answer: I won't get worried if he is growing normally Detailed Answer: Hello Thanks for the query First of all I would like to know the age and weight of your son. If the weight is appropriate for age I won't get overly worried. Most of the children are very choosy and fussy regarding their eating behaviour. The role of parents are very important in feeding the baby. Please let me know if this eating problem has arisen recently or for long duration.Also I would like to know if he avoids any particular food or his overall diet is poor. Waiting for your reply. Regards