my kids haviing 17months baby.he didn't eat properly....what should I do

Question

Accepted Answer

It’s common for toddlers to eat very small amounts, be fussy or not eat at all.
Give toddlers healthy food, and let them decide how much food to eat.
Look at toddler appetite over a week or more, rather than over a single meal or single day.
Try to create a positive eating environment, keep offering new foods and follow your toddler’s lead.

Accepted Answer

Getting a 17-month-old baby to eat can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can try to encourage better eating habits:

### Strategies to Encourage Eating

1. **Create a Routine**:
   - Establish regular meal and snack times.
   - Consistent schedules help children know what to expect and can improve their appetite.

2. **Offer a Variety of Foods**:
   - Introduce different textures, colors, and flavors.
   - Offer small portions of new foods alongside familiar favorites.

3. **Make Meals Fun**:
   - Use colorful plates and utensils.
   - Create fun shapes with the food.

4. **Limit Distractions**:
   - Turn off the TV and other screens during meal times.
   - Focus on making mealtime a calm and enjoyable experience.

5. **Be a Role Model**:
   - Eat together as a family whenever possible.
   - Show enthusiasm for the foods you're offering.

6. **Encourage Self-Feeding**:
   - Allow your child to feed themselves, even if it gets messy.
   - Offer finger foods that are easy to handle.

7. **Avoid Force-Feeding**:
   - Pressuring a child to eat can create negative associations with mealtime.
   - Instead, encourage and praise them when they try new foods.

8. **Limit Snacks and Beverages**:
   - Avoid giving too many snacks between meals.
   - Limit milk and juice intake before meals to ensure they have an appetite for solid food.

### Nutrient-Dense Foods

- **Fruits and Vegetables**: Cut into small, manageable pieces.
- **Protein**: Soft meats, beans, lentils, eggs.
- **Dairy**: Cheese, yogurt.
- **Whole Grains**: Small pieces of bread, pasta, rice.

### Recipes and Food Ideas

1. **Smoothies**: Blend fruits with yogurt or milk.
2. **Vegetable Muffins**: Hide vegetables in baked goods.
3. **Mini Sandwiches**: Use whole-grain bread and healthy fillings.
4. **Oatmeal**: Add fruit or a small amount of honey (if over 1 year old).
5. **Cheese and Veggie Quesadillas**: Easy to hold and eat.

### When to Seek Help

If your child consistently refuses to eat or if you're concerned about their nutrition and growth, it's important to consult with a pediatrician. They can check for underlying issues and provide tailored advice.

Additionally, a registered dietitian specializing in pediatric nutrition can offer more personalized strategies and meal plans.