#asktheexpert
my 1 year 3 month old boy not eating food properly. pls help

Question

#asktheexpert 
my 1 year 3 month old boy not eating food properly. pls help

Accepted Answer

young babies have small stomach capacity so give small frequent meals
encourage feeding by self and along with the family
do not force feed. engage child in loving conversations and stories
do not bottle feed. milk intake should not be more than 300ml to 400 ml per day, this includes Milk products as well

Accepted Answer

If your 15-month-old boy is not eating properly, here are some strategies and considerations to help improve his eating habits:

### Strategies to Encourage Eating:

1. **Establish a Routine:**
   - **Regular Meals and Snacks:** Offer three meals and two to three snacks at regular times each day. Consistency helps establish healthy eating habits.

2. **Offer a Variety:**
   - **Balanced Diet:** Provide a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy. Include different textures and flavors to keep meals interesting.

3. **Make Meals Appealing:**
   - **Presentation:** Present food in an attractive and fun way. Use colorful fruits and vegetables or create shapes and patterns with food.

4. **Encourage Self-Feeding:**
   - **Finger Foods:** Allow your child to explore and eat with their hands. Finger foods and utensils designed for toddlers can make eating more enjoyable and less frustrating.

5. **Limit Distractions:**
   - **Focused Eating:** Turn off the TV and other distractions during meal times to help your child focus on eating.

6. **Involve Your Child:**
   - **Participation:** Let your child help with simple food preparation tasks or pick out fruits and vegetables at the store. This involvement can make them more interested in eating.

7. **Be Patient:**
   - **Avoid Pressure:** Avoid forcing your child to eat or making mealtimes stressful. Encourage them to try new foods but don’t pressure them.

8. **Healthy Snacks:**
   - **Nutritious Options:** Offer healthy snacks between meals to ensure they are getting enough nutrients. Options include yogurt, fruit, cheese, and whole-grain crackers.

9. **Consistency and Repetition:**
   - **Repeated Exposure:** It can take multiple exposures to a new food before a child accepts it. Continue offering new foods alongside familiar ones.

### When to Seek Help:

1. **Consult a Pediatrician:**
   - **Professional Advice:** If your child’s eating problems persist, or if you’re concerned about their growth or nutritional intake, consult your pediatrician. They can assess whether there’s an underlying issue and provide tailored advice.

2. **Check for Health Issues:**
   - **Medical Evaluation:** Occasionally, eating problems can be related to health issues such as oral discomfort, digestive problems, or food allergies. A medical evaluation can help rule out these possibilities.

3. **Consider a Dietitian:**
   - **Nutritional Guidance:** A pediatric dietitian can offer specific strategies and meal plans to address picky eating and ensure your child’s nutritional needs are met.

Encouraging a healthy and enjoyable eating experience can help your child develop positive eating habits and ensure they are getting the nutrients they need for growth and development.

#asktheexpert my 1 year 3 month old boy not eating food properly. pls help