gd morning dr my baby have 10months old she is not eating food even one spoon also and also she is eating wallclay

Question

Accepted Answer

show baby by example 
let her handle food and allow her to eat by self
till 1 year breastfeeding remains major source of nutrition
do not force feed and let baby explore different textures flavours and types of food
let baby regulate the quantity

Accepted Answer

If your 10-month-old baby is refusing to eat and is eating non-food items like wall clay, it’s important to address these issues promptly. Here’s a guide to help you manage the situation:

### **1. **Addressing Food Refusal**
   - **Variety**: Offer a variety of foods in different textures and flavors. Sometimes babies refuse food simply due to a lack of variety.
   - **Make Meals Fun**: Present food in fun shapes or colors to make it more appealing. Let your baby explore food with their hands.
   - **Consistent Routine**: Maintain a regular feeding schedule. Offer meals and snacks at the same times each day.
   - **Avoid Distractions**: Create a calm and distraction-free eating environment. Limit screen time and other distractions during meals.
   - **Offer Small Portions**: Start with small amounts of food and gradually increase as your baby becomes more comfortable with eating.

### **2. **Addressing the Consumption of Non-Food Items**
   - **Check for Pica**: Eating non-food items could be a sign of pica, a condition where individuals crave non-nutritive substances. Consult your pediatrician to rule out or address this condition.
   - **Keep Areas Clean**: Ensure that your home is childproofed and that non-food items like wall clay are out of reach.
   - **Redirect Attention**: Offer safe alternatives for chewing and exploring, such as teething toys or appropriate snacks.

### **3. **Consult a Pediatrician**
   - **Nutritional Assessment**: Discuss your baby’s eating habits with a pediatrician to assess their nutritional needs and address any underlying issues.
   - **Health Evaluation**: If the refusal to eat is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, a medical evaluation may be necessary to rule out health concerns.

### **4. **Create a Positive Eating Experience**
   - **Involve Your Baby**: Let your baby be involved in meal preparation or mealtime routines. This can increase their interest in eating.
   - **Model Eating Behavior**: Eat meals together as a family. Babies often mimic the behavior of adults and older children.

### **5. **Monitor Growth and Development**
   - **Growth Tracking**: Keep track of your baby’s growth and weight. Your pediatrician can help assess whether your baby’s eating patterns are impacting their growth.

### **Conclusion:**
Persistent food refusal and eating non-food items can be concerning. By offering a variety of foods, creating a positive eating environment, and consulting with a pediatrician, you can address these issues and ensure your baby’s nutritional needs are met.