Mera 1 year 9 month's old baby hai...ajkal proper khana nai kha ra....kya krna chahiye....

Question

Accepted Answer

When a one-year, nine-month-old baby is refusing to eat, it can be concerning but is not uncommon. Here are some possible reasons for this behavior and strategies to encourage healthy eating:

Possible Reasons for Reduced Appetite

1. Developmental Changes

Reason: At this age, children often go through phases of decreased appetite as they are more interested in exploring their environment.

What to Do: Be patient and continue offering a variety of foods.

2. Teething

Reason: Teething can cause discomfort and make eating less appealing.

What to Do: Offer teething toys and soft, soothing foods.

3. Illness or Discomfort

Reason: A mild illness, sore throat, or other discomfort can reduce appetite.

What to Do: Monitor for other signs of illness. If symptoms persist, consult a pediatrician.

4. Growth Spurts

Reason: During growth spurts, appetite can fluctuate.

What to Do: Continue offering nutritious foods, as their appetite will likely return.

5. Picky Eating

Reason: This age is when children often start showing preferences for certain foods.

What to Do: Introduce new foods gradually and without pressure. Offer a variety of textures and flavors.

6. Changes in Routine

Reason: Changes in routine or environment can affect eating habits.

What to Do: Maintain a consistent meal and snack schedule to provide stability.

Strategies to Encourage Eating

1. Offer a Variety of Foods

What to Do: Provide different foods and textures. Include fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins. Make meals visually appealing with colorful and fun presentations.

2. Create a Positive Eating Environment

What to Do: Avoid distractions during meals (e.g., TV or toys). Make mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.

3. Involve Your Child

What to Do: Let your child help with simple tasks like washing vegetables or setting the table. This involvement can increase their interest in food.

4. Offer Small Portions

What to Do: Serve small portions to avoid overwhelming your child. Allow them to ask for more if they’re still hungry.

5. Stick to a Routine

What to Do: Have regular meal and snack times. Consistency helps regulate appetite.

6. Healthy Snacks

What to Do: Provide healthy snacks between meals to ensure they’re getting enough nutrients. Examples include yogurt, fruit slices, or whole-grain crackers.

7. Be Patient and Persistent

What to Do: Continue offering a variety of foods, even if they refuse them initially. It can take multiple exposures to a new food before they accept it.

8. Limit Drinks Before Meals

What to Do: Reduce the amount of milk or juice given before meals to ensure they’re hungry at mealtime.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Persistent Refusal: If your child consistently refuses food for more than a week or shows signs of significant weight loss or poor growth.

Additional Symptoms: If there are other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of illness.

Behavioral Concerns: If you notice significant changes in behavior or mood related to eating.

If you have concerns about your child’s eating habits or overall health, consult a pediatrician. They can help determine if there are any underlying issues and provide tailored advice.