#asktheexpert Hi Ma'am! My daughter is running in the 13th month now and I can see a gradual decrease in her appetite, I've heard that this is common in most of the kids , my only query is that this gradual decrease will cause any kind of immunity hamper in her ? what should I do to keep her protected from the hazardous infections occurring nowadays?

Question

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is quite common for toddlers, especially around the 12-18 month mark, to experience a decrease in appetite. This phase is often referred to as a "food refusal" stage, and it can worry parents. However, it's usually a normal part of development and can be attributed to several factors:

Why Appetite Decreases in Toddlers:

1. Slower Growth: After the rapid growth of infancy, toddlers tend to slow down in terms of physical growth. As a result, their nutritional needs decrease, and they may eat less.

2. Development of Independence: As your daughter becomes more mobile and independent, she may become distracted or more interested in exploring the world around her than eating.

3. Taste Preferences: This age is when toddlers begin to develop more specific tastes and may become picky about the foods they want to eat.

4. Teething: If your daughter is teething, it could cause discomfort and reduce her interest in food.

What You Can Do:

1. Offer a Variety of Foods: Continue offering a variety of healthy foods and textures to keep things interesting. If she refuses one food, don’t stress—try a different option.

2. Establish Routine: Maintain regular meal times and keep offering meals and snacks, even if she doesn’t eat much. Toddlers often eat small amounts at a time, so it's important to keep offering food without pressure.

3. Keep Mealtime Positive: Avoid turning meals into a power struggle. Let her explore food and eat at her own pace. Make mealtimes enjoyable and relaxed.

4. Monitor for Growth: Keep track of her growth (weight and height) during her regular pediatric visits. If she is maintaining a steady growth curve, it’s usually not a concern.

5. Avoid Over-reliance on Liquids: Too much milk or juice can reduce her hunger for solids. Make sure she is getting a balanced diet and limit her milk intake to an appropriate amount for her age.

If her appetite continues to decline or if you're concerned about her growth, it's always a good idea to consult your pediatrician for further guidance. They can assess her overall health and offer personalized recommendations.