Poor Appetite in Infants: Traditional Chinese Medicine Insights

Poor appetite in infants?

Hello Doctor: My baby is over three months old, and his appetite has always been small.
He drinks only about 100 ml every four hours, and sometimes even less than that.
Recently, he has been experiencing bloating and colicky pain.
I'm not sure if he is experiencing early milk aversion or if he is unable to drink due to gastrointestinal discomfort.
Today, I visited a doctor for my own condition (mommy's wrist), and the traditional Chinese medicine practitioner suggested using herbal medicine mixed with water to help regulate my baby's body.
However, he is only a little over three months old; is it safe for him to take this? Although his appetite is small, he is growing well, weighing 7 kg at three months.
Should I be concerned, or is it acceptable as long as his growth rate is normal? Thank you for your response.

Pei Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/05/16

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Fish Matching Network User,
Here are the responses to your questions:
1.
Your baby, who is over three months old, drinks only 100 cc in four hours, and sometimes even less than that.
This may indicate a smaller appetite, but you should observe her feeding behavior.
If she drinks vigorously, there is no need to worry.
However, if she appears lethargic during feedings and shows a lack of appetite, then some adjustments may be necessary.
2.
Your baby may be experiencing gas, colic, or a gastrointestinal virus, which can lead to temporary feeding aversion.
Once these conditions are treated, the feeding issues should improve.
3.
If there are no other underlying health issues, I would consider using a small amount of herbal medicine to help regulate your baby's spleen and stomach, mixed with water or milk.
When the spleen is functioning well, her appetite should increase.
4.
You can refer to a pediatric growth chart to assess your baby's growth rate.
At over three months and weighing seven kilograms, she falls within the normal range, so there is no need for concern.
Additionally, for infant gas, in addition to medication, changing feeding habits to smaller, more frequent meals may help.
Clinically, gentle abdominal massage by a qualified practitioner, combined with medication, can also improve gas issues.
Wishing you all the best,
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung
Director, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Fengyuan Hospital
Assistant Professor
[email protected]

Reply Date: 2007/05/16

More Info

When it comes to the health and nutrition of infants, particularly regarding their appetite and the use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Your concerns about your three-month-old baby’s small appetite and gastrointestinal discomfort are valid, and it’s essential to approach this situation with care.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that infants have varying appetites, and what is considered "normal" can differ significantly from one baby to another. The fact that your baby is gaining weight appropriately—at seven kilograms by three months—suggests that he is receiving adequate nutrition, even if his intake seems low. Pediatricians often emphasize that as long as an infant is growing well and meeting developmental milestones, a smaller appetite may not be a cause for concern.

Regarding the use of TCM for infants, it is crucial to proceed with caution. TCM can offer various remedies that are believed to help with digestive issues and overall health. However, the safety and appropriateness of these remedies for very young infants, especially those as young as three months, should be carefully evaluated. The digestive systems of infants are still developing, and they can be sensitive to various substances, including herbal medicines.

The advice from the TCM practitioner to use herbal remedies mixed with water to help your baby is something that should be approached with caution. While some herbs may be safe and beneficial, others can be harmful or cause adverse reactions in infants. It is essential to consult with a qualified pediatrician or a pediatric TCM specialist who has experience with infants before introducing any herbal treatments. They can provide guidance on which herbs, if any, are safe and appropriate for your baby's age and condition.

Additionally, the symptoms of gas and colic that you mentioned can be common in infants and may not necessarily indicate a need for herbal intervention. Many infants experience gastrointestinal discomfort as their digestive systems mature. Techniques such as gentle tummy massages, ensuring proper feeding positions, and burping your baby adequately can sometimes alleviate these issues without the need for medication or herbal remedies.

If your baby continues to show signs of discomfort or if his feeding patterns change significantly, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional. They can assess whether there are underlying issues that need to be addressed, such as allergies or intolerances, which could be contributing to his reduced appetite and gastrointestinal discomfort.

In summary, while TCM can provide insights and potential remedies for various health issues, the safety and appropriateness of these treatments for infants must be carefully considered. Given your baby's current growth and development, it may be best to monitor his appetite and comfort levels while consulting with healthcare professionals for tailored advice. Always prioritize safety and evidence-based practices when it comes to the health of your child.

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