#asktheexpert hii doctor my son is 18 months old now. Last month he was not feeling well offen he was getting fever & cold. He was having the habbit of eating chicken and also eggs but now after recovering from this fever he stopped eating egg and chicken

Question

Accepted Answer

It's common for young children to develop temporary changes in appetite or food preferences after an illness. Here are some tips to encourage your 18-month-old to eat eggs and chicken again:

Reasons for Change in Appetite:

1. Taste Sensitivity: After being unwell, children may be more sensitive to certain tastes or textures.

2. Associative Memory: They might associate certain foods with their illness, leading to avoidance.

3. General Discomfort: If they had a sore throat or other discomfort, it might have made eating certain foods less appealing.

Encouragement Strategies:

1. Reintroduce Gradually: Start with small portions of eggs or chicken in different forms (e.g., scrambled eggs, chicken soup) to see what he might accept.

2. Incorporate into Favorites: Mix eggs or chicken into dishes he already likes, such as rice, pasta, or vegetables.

3. Make It Fun: Present food in fun shapes or colors to make it more appealing.

4. Involve Him: Let him help with simple cooking tasks, like stirring or choosing ingredients, to spark interest.

5. Consistency and Patience: Keep offering the foods without pressure. Sometimes it takes multiple exposures for a child to regain interest.

Other Nutritional Sources:

If he's still reluctant to eat eggs and chicken, consider other protein sources:

Beans and Lentils: Good plant-based protein options.

Dairy: Yogurt and cheese can provide protein and calcium.

Fish: If acceptable, fish can be a good alternative to chicken.

Nut Butters: If there are no allergy concerns, nut butters can be nutritious.

When to Consult a Doctor:

If the food aversion persists for an extended period, or if you notice any signs of malnutrition or significant weight loss, consult your pediatrician for further evaluation and support.