#asktheexpert
my son had high fever till last week. post that he is eating very less and has lost around 2kgs during the illness. looking out for some suggestions to improve his diet and weight

Question

#asktheexpert 
my son had high fever till last week. post that he is eating very less and has lost around 2kgs during the illness. looking out for some suggestions to improve his diet and weight

Accepted Answer

After an illness with high fever, it’s common for children to experience a reduced appetite and weight loss. Here’s how you can help your son regain his appetite and healthy weight:

### **1. **Gradual Reintroduction:**
   - **Small, Frequent Meals:** Offer small, frequent meals rather than three large ones to help rebuild his appetite.
   - **High-Calorie Foods:** Include high-calorie, nutrient-dense foods such as avocado, nut butters, full-fat dairy products, and lean meats.

### **2. **Nutrient-Rich Foods:**
   - **Proteins:** Incorporate sources like chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes to support muscle repair and growth.
   - **Healthy Fats:** Add avocados, olive oil, and nuts (if age-appropriate) to his meals for extra calories.
   - **Fruits and Vegetables:** Offer a variety of fruits and vegetables, aiming for those high in vitamins and minerals. Smoothies can be a good way to get nutrients in a more appealing form.

### **3. **Hydration:**
   - **Encourage Fluids:** Ensure he drinks enough fluids to stay hydrated. Offer water, milk, or diluted fruit juices.
   - **Electrolyte Solutions:** If he had significant fluid loss, consider giving an oral rehydration solution, but consult a pediatrician first.

### **4. **Appealing Presentation:**
   - **Make Meals Fun:** Present food in a visually appealing way or involve him in meal preparation to make eating more enjoyable.
   - **Favorite Foods:** Include his favorite foods, especially those he may find comforting or easier to eat.

### **5. **Monitor and Support:**
   - **Track Weight:** Keep track of his weight and growth to ensure he’s gaining back lost weight.
   - **Encourage Regular Eating:** Encourage regular meal times and avoid forcing him to eat, which might create negative associations with food.

### **6. **Consult a Pediatrician:**
   - **Professional Guidance:** If he continues to eat very little or does not regain weight as expected, consult your pediatrician. They can check for any lingering effects from the illness or other underlying issues.

### **7. **Recovery Support:**
   - **Rest and Recovery:** Ensure he gets plenty of rest to support his overall recovery and appetite.

Reintroducing a balanced and appealing diet while providing support and patience can help your son regain his weight and improve his overall health.

#asktheexpert my son had high fever till last week. post that he is eating very less and has lost around 2kgs during the illness. looking out for some suggestions to improve his diet and weight