#asktheexpert
my baby is 16 months and till now she was happily eating everything like daal, chaval, roti etc but from 3 days she is bothering too much for it not accepting food happily.. it takes almost an hour to make her eat. what can be the reason what to do

Question

#asktheexpert 
my baby is 16 months and till now she was happily eating everything like daal, chaval, roti etc but from 3 days she is bothering too much for it not accepting food happily.. it takes almost an hour to make her eat. what can be the reason what to do

Accepted Answer

If your 16-month-old daughter has suddenly started refusing food after previously eating well, it could be due to several factors. It's common for toddlers to go through phases of decreased appetite or food rejection, often related to growth spurts, teething, or changes in routine. Here are some steps you can take to encourage her to eat:

1. Maintain Routine: Offer meals and snacks at regular times each day to establish a consistent eating routine. This can help her feel more secure and less resistant to food.

2. Offer Variety: Introduce a variety of foods, even if she is refusing some. Try different textures, colors, and flavors to spark her interest. Sometimes, presenting the same foods in a new way can make them more appealing.

3. Make It Fun: Get creative with meals by making fun shapes or using colorful plates. Engaging her in the process, like letting her help with simple tasks, can also make mealtime more enjoyable.

4. Be Patient: It’s important not to force her to eat or create pressure around mealtimes, as this can lead to negative associations with food. Offer food without expectations and let her decide how much to eat.

5. Monitor for Illness: Keep an eye on her for any signs of illness, teething discomfort, or other issues that may be affecting her appetite. If her refusal to eat persists for more than a few days or if she shows other concerning symptoms, consult your pediatrician for further evaluation.

It's essential to stay calm and positive during this phase. Many children go through similar stages, and they often return to their usual eating habits after a while.

#asktheexpert my baby is 16 months and till now she was happily eating everything like daal, chaval, roti etc but from 3 days she is bothering too much for it not accepting food happily.. it takes almost an hour to make her eat. what can be the reason what to do