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how to increase appetite

Question

#asktheexpert 
how to increase appetite

Accepted Answer

thanks for reply. already done with all this. kindly suggest appetite booster

Accepted Answer

If your 2-year-old is not eating well, it can be challenging for both you and your baby. However, there are several strategies you can try to increase their appetite and encourage healthy eating habits:

1. Create a Routine

Regular Meal Times: Stick to consistent meal and snack times. Kids thrive on routine, so offering food at the same times each day may help improve their appetite.

Offer Small, Frequent Meals: At this age, your child might not want large meals. Instead, offer small portions 4-5 times a day, including snacks.

2. Make Meals Fun and Engaging

Variety and Color: Present a variety of colorful foods to make meals visually appealing. Kids are more likely to eat when the food is fun and interesting.

Shape Food: Use cookie cutters or mold food into fun shapes (stars, animals, etc.) to catch your child’s interest.

Interactive Meals: Try “dippable” foods (like veggies with hummus, cheese sticks, or fruits with yogurt) to make meals more engaging.

3. Be a Role Model

Eat Together: Children often eat better when they see others eating. Sit down to meals with your child and eat the same foods so they can see you enjoying them.

Avoid Pressuring: Don’t force your child to eat. This can create a negative association with food. Instead, encourage them to try new things in a relaxed way.

4. Incorporate Favorite Foods

Offer healthy versions of your child’s favorite foods. If they love something like pasta, try adding vegetables, beans, or lean meats to make it more nutritious.

5. Healthy Snacks

Provide nutritious snacks between meals, such as fruit, cheese, yogurt, boiled eggs, or small sandwiches, to help your child maintain energy levels without feeling overwhelmed by large meals.

6. Limit Liquid Intake Before Meals

Avoid Filling Up on Liquids: Excessive juice, milk, or other liquids before meals can make your child feel too full to eat. Offer liquids after meals, not before.

7. Encourage Self-feeding

Allow your child to feed themselves. Providing finger foods or a spoon/fork they can manage can encourage interest in eating and increase their appetite.

8. Be Patient with New Foods

Introduce New Foods Gradually: If your child is hesitant to try new foods, introduce them slowly alongside familiar favorites. It may take several attempts before they accept a new food.

9. Ensure Health and Growth

Check for Medical Issues: If poor appetite persists, consider discussing it with your pediatrician. Sometimes underlying conditions like anemia, constipation, or teething can affect appetite.

Growth Milestones: Keep in mind that appetite can fluctuate with growth spurts. If your child is still growing well and maintaining a healthy weight, a temporary decrease in appetite may not be a cause for concern.

10. Include Healthy Fats and Protein

Include nutrient-dense foods like avocado, eggs, cheese, yogurt, and nut butters in their meals to add calories and essential nutrients without requiring large portions.

By offering a variety of foods, creating a pleasant mealtime experience, and respecting your child's hunger cues, you can help encourage a healthier appetite. If you're still concerned about your child's eating habits or growth, it’s best to consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice.

#asktheexpert how to increase appetite