#asktheexperts
My daughter will be 2 year old in coming days.
now she start easting less like half what she eat before
Please suggest what we can do

Question

#asktheexperts 
My daughter will be 2 year old in coming days.
now she start easting less like half what she eat before 
Please suggest what we can do

Accepted Answer

It's common for toddlers to go through phases where their appetite decreases, often around the age of 2. Here are some tips to help encourage your daughter to eat more and ensure she gets the nutrition she needs:

### Tips to Encourage Eating:
1. **Offer Small, Frequent Meals**:
   - Instead of three large meals, offer smaller, more frequent meals and snacks throughout the day.

2. **Make Meals Fun**:
   - Use colorful plates and utensils.
   - Arrange food in fun shapes or patterns.
   - Offer a variety of colors and textures.

3. **Healthy Snacks**:
   - Offer healthy snacks such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, and whole grains between meals.

4. **Involve Her in Meal Prep**:
   - Let her help with simple tasks like washing vegetables or stirring ingredients. This can make her more interested in eating.

5. **Set a Routine**:
   - Try to have meals and snacks at the same times each day to establish a routine.

6. **Limit Distractions**:
   - Turn off the TV and put away toys during meal times to help her focus on eating.

7. **Offer a Variety**:
   - Provide a variety of foods and let her choose what she wants to eat. Even if she only takes a few bites, it’s important to offer different options.

8. **Avoid Force-feeding**:
   - Encourage her to eat, but avoid forcing her to eat. This can create negative associations with mealtime.

9. **Lead by Example**:
   - Eat together as a family and show her how much you enjoy the food. Toddlers often mimic the behavior of their parents.

### Nutritional Focus:
1. **Balanced Diet**:
   - Ensure she gets a balanced diet with proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy.
   - Focus on nutrient-dense foods to make sure she gets the necessary vitamins and minerals even if she's eating less.

2. **Hydration**:
   - Make sure she drinks enough water throughout the day.
   - Limit sugary drinks and juices, which can decrease her appetite for nutritious foods.

### When to Seek Medical Advice:
- If she continues to eat very little and you are concerned about her growth and development.
- If she shows signs of being unwell, such as weight loss, lethargy, or any other concerning symptoms.
- If there are any other significant changes in her behavior or health.

It's important to remember that toddlers often eat less than parents expect, and their growth may slow down compared to their first year. If you continue to be concerned, consult with her pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues and to get personalized advice.

#asktheexperts My daughter will be 2 year old in coming days. now she start easting less like half what she eat before Please suggest what we can do