#asktheexpert my son has poor appetite and is not gaining weight..after he comes from school he becomes tired and sleeps for 4 hrs...still he seems weak...plz suggest any vitamins or medicines to increase appetite..thank you

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A poor appetite and lack of weight gain in children can be concerning, and it's important to address these issues to ensure proper growth and development. Here are some steps and considerations for managing your child's appetite and energy levels:

### Dietary Adjustments:
1. **Balanced Meals:** Ensure that meals are balanced with a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.
2. **Frequent Small Meals:** Offer small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day rather than three large meals.
3. **Nutrient-Dense Foods:** Focus on nutrient-dense foods such as avocados, nuts, seeds, whole grains, lean meats, dairy products, and fruits and vegetables.
4. **Avoid Empty Calories:** Limit sugary snacks and beverages that provide little nutritional value.
5. **Hydration:** Ensure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day.

### Encouraging Appetite:
1. **Routine:** Establish regular meal and snack times to create a predictable eating schedule.
2. **Variety:** Introduce a variety of foods to make meals more interesting.
3. **Involvement:** Involve your child in meal planning and preparation to increase their interest in food.
4. **Presentation:** Make meals visually appealing with colorful fruits and vegetables.

### Possible Supplements:
Consult with your pediatrician before starting any supplements. Some commonly recommended supplements for improving appetite and overall nutrition in children include:
1. **Multivitamins:** A pediatric multivitamin can help ensure your child gets essential nutrients.
2. **Vitamin B Complex:** B vitamins are important for energy and metabolism.
3. **Iron:** If your child is anemic or has low iron levels, an iron supplement might be recommended.
4. **Zinc:** Zinc can help improve appetite and is essential for growth and immune function.

### Addressing Fatigue:
1. **Adequate Sleep:** Ensure your child gets enough sleep at night. A regular sleep schedule is important.
2. **Balanced Activity:** Balance physical activity with rest. Encourage outdoor play and physical exercise, but also ensure there is time for rest and relaxation.
3. **Monitor Screen Time:** Limit screen time, especially before bed, to promote better sleep quality.

### When to Seek Medical Advice:
- If your child's poor appetite and fatigue persist, it's important to consult a pediatrician.
- The doctor can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly blood tests, to rule out underlying medical conditions such as anemia, thyroid issues, or other metabolic disorders.
- The pediatrician may also provide specific dietary recommendations or refer you to a pediatric dietitian for personalized advice.

### Summary:
- Ensure balanced, nutrient-dense meals and snacks.
- Establish a regular eating and sleeping schedule.
- Consult a pediatrician before starting any supplements.
- Address any underlying medical conditions that might be affecting your child's appetite and energy levels.

By following these steps and working closely with your pediatrician, you can help improve your child's appetite and overall health.