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my child's -22 month boy- weight and height are in the lower side. his weight is not increasing. any medicine we can give to increase his appetite

Question

#asktheexpert 
my child's -22 month boy- weight and height are in the lower side. his weight is not increasing. any medicine we can give to increase his appetite

Accepted Answer

For a 22-month-old boy whose weight is on the lower side and is not gaining weight, it’s essential to focus on a balanced approach rather than relying solely on medication. While there are appetite stimulants available, they should only be used under the guidance of a pediatrician. Here’s how you can approach the situation:

Understand Growth Patterns

1. Normal Growth Variations: Children grow at different rates, and some may be naturally leaner than others.

2. Developmental Milestones: Ensure your child is meeting developmental milestones. Active toddlers might weigh less but still be healthy.

Strategies to Increase Appetite

1. Nutrient-Dense Foods: Offer high-calorie foods that provide good nutrition. Examples include:

Nut butters (if no allergies) spread on bread or fruit.

Avocado, which is high in healthy fats.

Full-fat dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and whole milk.

Oily fish (like salmon) and other protein-rich foods.

2. Frequent, Small Meals: Offer 5-6 small meals throughout the day instead of three large ones. Kids often eat better when they don’t feel overwhelmed.

3. Involve Him in Food Choices: Allow your child to help with meal planning or preparation. Involving them can increase their interest in eating.

4. Make Meals Fun: Create visually appealing meals with colorful fruits and vegetables or fun shapes. Sometimes, the presentation can encourage a child to eat more.

5. Limit Milk Intake: If your child drinks a lot of milk, it can fill him up and reduce his appetite for solid foods. Aim for 2-3 servings of dairy per day.

6. Minimize Distractions: Reduce distractions during meal times (like screens) to help him focus on eating.

When to Consult a Pediatrician

Medical Evaluation: If his weight is significantly below the normal range for his age or if there are other concerning symptoms (like lethargy, poor growth, or digestive issues).

Nutritional Assessment: A pediatrician can evaluate his diet and may refer you to a dietitian if needed.

Consider Supplementation: If necessary, a doctor may recommend multivitamins or appetite stimulants based on your child’s specific needs.

Possible Medications (Only on Doctor's Advice)

If your pediatrician feels it’s appropriate, they may suggest appetite stimulants or other medications based on a thorough assessment of your child’s health. Common medications that may be considered include:

Cyproheptadine: An antihistamine that has appetite-stimulating properties.

Mirtazapine: An antidepressant that can stimulate appetite in some cases.

Keep Monitoring

Track his weight and height regularly, and maintain follow-up visits with your pediatrician to monitor his growth over time.

By focusing on a balanced diet and working closely with your pediatrician, you can help your child develop healthy eating habits and improve his weight gain naturally.

#asktheexpert my child's -22 month boy- weight and height are in the lower side. his weight is not increasing. any medicine we can give to increase his appetite