Feeding Challenges: Tips for Improving Your Child's Appetite and Digestion

Previous inquiry

Is it okay to blend any fruit with starchy foods and milk? Will it be easy for the baby to drink from a bottle? If I add fruit, should I avoid starchy foods at home, or can I mix them all together? I'm sorry, but where can I buy wheat? My baby refuses to eat what we adults eat and cries a lot, which is really distressing! His appetite has not improved, and even at two years old, he still doesn't eat! There was a time when he was drinking milk so much that he vomited and complained of stomach pain because he felt uncomfortable.
I’ve been to many pharmacies, but there are so many options, and I don't know how to choose! I wonder if you, as a doctor, know of anything that can stimulate his appetite and support his gastrointestinal health! I feel like crying so many times because I don’t know what to do! My son is different from other children.
While other kids want to eat whatever they see, my son doesn’t want to eat anything unless it looks strange or has a dark appearance...
he dislikes it! He also drinks very little water, which leads to frequent constipation and crying! I really don’t know what to do.
I apologize for asking so many questions; this is my first time taking care of a child, and I’m not very experienced.
I’ve asked my mother and mother-in-law, but they don’t know what to do either, so I’ve been searching online for solutions! However, I can't find any information! My mother-in-law suggested that I let him go hungry to see if he would eat, but I’ve tried that, and he still refuses to eat and just keeps asking for milk, so I can’t really let him go hungry! He takes a bite of food and keeps it in his mouth without swallowing.
When he finally does swallow, he does it without chewing.
It’s hard to explain.
When I took him to the doctor, they said his digestion isn’t good because the food he eats comes out whole, like corn, carrots, and vegetables...
I’m so worried! I’m really afraid of what will happen when he starts preschool.
What should I do? I’m worried about malnutrition!

Ying, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/12/01

Dr. Chen Shuzi reply Pharmacology

1.
Each time, choose only one type of fruit to blend with milk so that your little one can drink it from a bottle! If you choose starchy foods, it's best to mix them with milk into a puree and feed them with a spoon (do not blend fruits and starchy foods with milk together; choose one at a time).
You can find small packages of starchy ingredients at the supermarket to try out.

2.
Ying: You can visit a pediatrician at a nearby hospital and discuss your concerns; there may also be a nutritionist or health educator available to assist you!
3.
Evaluating your child's taste preferences solely from an adult's perspective is not objective.
It's best to consult a pediatrician to assess your child's growth based on their height, weight, and developmental milestones to ensure they are within the standard growth curve!
4.
It is recommended to visit a children's specialty store to choose utensils that meet safety standards (such as cute bowls, plates, and spoons).
Prepare food for your little one with a playful attitude, allowing them to participate in the process.
Children are more willing to try the food they helped create!
5.
Every mother learns to be a mom after having her own little one, so don't be too anxious; you are already doing a great job! Keep it up!

Reply Date: 2010/12/01

More Info

Feeding challenges in young children can be quite distressing for parents, especially when it comes to ensuring that their child receives adequate nutrition for healthy growth and development. Based on the concerns you've raised, it seems that your child is experiencing a combination of selective eating, potential digestive issues, and possibly some sensory sensitivities to food textures and appearances. Here are some strategies to help improve your child's appetite and digestion, while also addressing your specific questions about food combinations and choices.

1. Food Combinations and Preparation:
When it comes to combining fruits, starches, and milk, it's generally best to introduce these foods separately rather than mixing them all together. For example, you can blend a single type of fruit with milk to create a smoothie that your child might find more palatable. If you want to introduce starches, consider offering them as a separate dish, such as mashed potatoes or rice, rather than mixing them with milk or fruit. This approach allows your child to explore flavors and textures without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Texture and Sensory Considerations:
Given that your child seems to have strong preferences against certain textures and appearances, it may be beneficial to experiment with different cooking methods. For instance, steaming vegetables can make them softer and easier to chew, while pureeing them can create a smoother texture that might be more acceptable. Additionally, using fun shapes or colors can make food more appealing. Engaging your child in the food preparation process, such as letting them help wash or arrange food, can also spark interest.

3. Encouraging Appetite:
To stimulate your child's appetite, consider the following tips:
- Routine: Establish a regular meal and snack schedule to create a sense of predictability around eating.

- Small Portions: Offer small portions to avoid overwhelming your child. You can always provide more if they finish what’s on their plate.

- Positive Environment: Create a relaxed and positive mealtime atmosphere. Avoid distractions like television or toys, and try to eat together as a family when possible.

- Involvement: Allow your child to choose between two or three healthy options at mealtime. This can give them a sense of control and make them more likely to eat.

4. Addressing Digestive Issues:
If your child is experiencing discomfort, such as stomach pain or constipation, it’s crucial to address these issues directly. Here are some suggestions:
- Hydration: Ensure your child is drinking enough fluids throughout the day. If plain water is not appealing, consider offering diluted fruit juices or flavored water.

- Fiber Intake: Incorporate fiber-rich foods gradually, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to help with digestion. However, introduce these slowly to avoid overwhelming their system.

- Probiotics: Foods containing probiotics, such as yogurt (if tolerated) or fermented foods, can support gut health. If dairy is a concern, consider non-dairy alternatives that contain probiotics.

5. Professional Guidance:
Given the complexity of your child's feeding challenges, it may be beneficial to consult with a pediatrician or a pediatric dietitian. They can assess your child's growth, development, and nutritional needs more thoroughly. If there are concerns about swallowing or digestive issues, a speech therapist or occupational therapist specializing in feeding may also be helpful.

6. Emotional Support:
Lastly, it’s important to recognize the emotional toll that feeding challenges can take on parents. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, and seeking support from other parents or professionals can provide you with additional strategies and reassurance.

In conclusion, addressing feeding challenges requires patience, creativity, and sometimes professional intervention. By experimenting with food combinations, focusing on texture, creating a positive eating environment, and seeking professional guidance, you can help improve your child's appetite and digestion. Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another, so be open to trying different approaches until you find what suits your child best.

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