Loss of appetite in children is often one of the biggest concerns for parents. A child's inability to eat enough, refusing certain foods altogether, or acting anxious while eating can cause tension in the family. In reality, loss of appetite has many causes and requires a tailored approach to each child's situation.
Main Causes of Loss of Appetite in Children
Loss of appetite can sometimes be caused by a simple reason, while other times it may indicate a more serious medical problem. The most common causes are:
- Infections and illnesses – flu, angina, and intestinal infections can reduce a child's appetite.
- Teething period – in infants, discomfort and pain during teething can weaken appetite.
- Eating habits and food selectivity – some children are sensitive to certain tastes and prefer to eat only the foods they like.
- Psychological factors – stress, adapting to a new environment, or tension at school or within the family can reduce appetite.
- Excessive snacking – children who fill up on sweets and carbonated drinks before main meals may develop a loss of appetite.
- Food allergies and digestive problems – certain foods can cause discomfort in a child's stomach, leading them to refuse eating.
Symptoms of Loss of Appetite in Children
Parents can sometimes have a hard time distinguishing between when a loss of appetite is a normal part of growing up and when it indicates a serious problem. It's important to pay attention to the signs:
- The child consistently refuses to eat;
- Food intake does not seem to meet daily needs;
- Weight loss or stagnation in weight gain;
- Easy fatigue and dissatisfaction during meals;
- Consuming only liquid or soft foods.
If this condition persists for a long time, a doctor's advice should be sought.
How to Fight Loss of Appetite in Children?
Finding the cause of loss of appetite is the first step in treatment. At Saglam Aile Medical Center, after children are evaluated both physically and psychologically, parents are provided with appropriate recommendations.
- Maintain regular meal times;
- Offer foods suitable for the child’s age and taste preferences;
- Reduce carbonated drinks and sweets;
- Provide meals in a calm and stress-free environment;
- If loss of appetite is caused by an infection or illness, treatment should be carried out under medical supervision.
Parents should remember that forcing children to eat can have the opposite effect. The main goal is to instill healthy and balanced eating habits in the child.