Loss Of Appetite In Toddlers: Some Effective Tips To Increase Their Appetite

The primary concern for every parent is the issue of their child not eating properly. For new parents, managing a toddler's sudden loss of appetite can be particularly daunting. This phenomenon is common among children aged 1 to 5 and can be attributed to a variety of factors. It is entirely normal to encounter such difficulties. Parents may find themselves pondering questions such as the reasons behind their toddler's lack of appetite, the possibility that their child may not enjoy the food provided, or how to naturally stimulate their child's hunger. Fortunately, we are here to provide you with the answers you seek, so let us explore the underlying causes and discover effective methods to naturally enhance appetite in children.

Causes Of Loss Of Appetite In Toddlers:

Illness:

The sudden loss of appetite in toddlers is often attributed to common illnesses such as the cold, flu, or ear infections. In such instances, it is advisable to monitor for signs of fever. Additionally, observe if the child appears lethargic or irritable, and check for other symptoms such as a cough or runny nose. If you suspect that your child may be experiencing these issues, it is crucial to consult a physician to eliminate the possibility of a more serious condition. Other factors may also contribute to a decrease in appetite among children.

Teething: 

Teething can make it difficult for babies to eat or drink due to mouth pain, starting as early as three months. Signs include irritability, increased drooling, sensitive gums, and sleep issues, which can distress both the child and parent, often reducing appetite. To ease discomfort, provide chewable toys and offer cold foods or drinks to numb the gums.

Growth Spurts: 

For every parent seeing their toddler grow big is the most adorable moment, but it comes with some hassles for you and your child. It’s a time when your toddlers go through quick physical growth in height and weight, which can be the reason for a loss of appetite in children. Your kid may get cranky or moody during this phase. This is normal, and this will pass.

Changes in Routine: 

As the kid grows, many things around him change, like starting school, daily routine, playing time, and also, for instance, moving to a new home. Changes in routine can cause stress and anxiety in toddlers and can cause a loss of appetite in children. As a parent, you should try to maintain a sense of normalcy, try setting a schedule for mealtimes and bedtimes and stick to them as much as possible. Introduce new foods gradually and try not to force them all at once.

How To Increase A Child’s Appetite Naturally?

Reduce Their Snack Intake: 

Remember the time when we all used to love binging on snacks and avoiding Roti Sabzi?? Everyone loves snacking on foods that are not good for our health, and kids are no special case. A parent needs to reduce the snack intake to increase hunger in the child naturally. You can also set a good example by eating healthy snacks yourself and avoiding processed foods. Two small healthy snacks a day are fine and will not cause any harm.

Encourage Playing Each Day: 

For toddlers of this generation, it’s crucial to know the importance of going out and playing when they have thousands of reasons not to go! As a parent, it’s your responsibility to encourage and motivate your child to play so that there is some physical activity which will surely increase hunger in the child naturally as it will help to have a higher metabolism.

Make Mealtimes Fun: 

Make mealtimes fun by involving your child in the process. Let them help you measure and mix ingredients and count out utensils. It will help them to increase their interest in what’s being prepared. Try making a healthier version of their favourite foods. In this way, you will make them more likely to try out new foods.

Be Patient: 

It is essential to be patient when dealing with children’s appetite loss. Encourage your child to eat, but do not force them. It may take some time for their appetite to return to normal. Remember that this is likely temporary and that your child will eventually start eating again. Also, resting is equally important. Know if Montessori floor beds are good for your children.

In conclusion, loss of appetite in children is common and can be caused by various factors. As a parent, it is essential to remain calm and patient to support and encourage your child. It can be resolved with time and patience. In the meantime, these tips should help them through the sudden loss of appetite in toddlers.

Sources:

1. Appetite In Childhood: How It Is Developed And Shaped 

2. The ‘picky eater’: The toddler or preschooler who does not eat