Hi,
My 15 month old boy is not eating properly these days,earlier he used to eat in good amount.Kindly let me know reason behind this behavior.

Question

Accepted Answer

Namaste Mom,

Eating pattern keep on changing , so not to worry these are just phases, one of the quite common reason for loss of appetite is also when the child might be teething as well

Answer

It’s common for toddlers, like your 15-month-old, to go through phases where they eat less than usual. There are several reasons why this change in eating behavior might be happening:

1. Growth Spurts:

Babies often experience periods of rapid growth, followed by phases where growth slows down. During the slower growth phases, their appetite might decrease naturally because their bodies don’t need as much food.

2. Teething:

Teething can make your baby feel uncomfortable or even in pain, leading to reduced interest in eating. Swollen or sore gums may cause them to avoid solid foods.

3. Illness or Discomfort:

Minor illnesses like colds, ear infections, or digestive issues can cause a temporary loss of appetite. Even if they don't show clear symptoms, your baby might not feel well and, as a result, may not want to eat.

4. Developmental Milestones:

At 15 months, your baby might be more focused on developing motor skills like walking, exploring, or talking. Their curiosity and desire to explore the world can distract them from eating.

5. Picky Eating Behavior:

Toddlers often become more selective about their food choices as they develop a sense of independence. They may refuse foods they previously enjoyed simply because they are asserting control.

6. Changes in Routine:

Any change in routine (such as new family dynamics, travel, or moving) can affect your child’s eating patterns. Even small changes can influence their comfort and willingness to eat.

What You Can Do:

Offer Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of focusing on large meals, offer small portions of food throughout the day. This can make eating feel less overwhelming.

Include Favorite Foods: If your baby has favorite foods, offer those while also encouraging them to try new options.

Make Mealtime Fun: Make eating enjoyable by offering finger foods, colorful plates, and involving your baby in mealtime activities like helping with simple tasks.

Stick to a Routine: Keep a consistent eating schedule. Toddlers thrive on routines, so maintaining regular meal and snack times can help.

Avoid Force-Feeding: Forcing your baby to eat can create negative associations with food. Let them eat at their own pace and show patience.

When to Worry:

If your baby continues to eat very little over a longer period, loses weight, shows signs of dehydration, or seems lethargic, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician. They can rule out any underlying medical issues and provide personalized advice.

In most cases, phases of reduced eating are temporary and resolve on their own as the baby’s growth and developmental stages change.

Hi, My 15 month old boy is not eating properly these days,earlier he used to eat in good amount.Kindly let me know reason behind this behavior.