Can someone reassure me regarding 16 month old son loss of appetite?

Question

pls help. For the last ten days my son has suddenly lost his appetite and meal times are becoming a hassle. I tried giving his favorite food in favorite places but his response is very low. Physically he is fine maybe just traces of some cold and cannot see any new teeth coming out (he already has 8 teeth and 4 molars). Is this a normal phase he is going through or what. Pls share your experience and ideas as I am worried. His mood is not so great and he is sticking to me and whining alot.

Answer 1

As long as he's healthy and shows no sign of being sick, I wouldn't be too worried.

My son is the same age and one day willl go with eating very little and the next eat nice sized portioned meals. When I look at his overall consumption for a week, it tends to even out.

You should always call your doctor though if you ever have any concern.

I know my child and can tell if something is wrong and I'm sure you can/will as well. Do what you think is best.

Answer 2

Teething is very likely. My son goes through growth phases where i can tell his appetite has increased and then there are times when he shows little to no interest in food. A toddlers stomach is only about the size of their fist so it doesnt take much to fill it. I used to worry about my son not eating enough but my doctor told me that babies only need a couple of tablespoons per meal. As long as he is having regular bowel movements and is not losing weight then you should be fine. Make sure he gets plenty of liquids, if it is a cold this will help too.

Answer 3

If there has been any big changes in your routine - he is probably just trying to adjust to the changes.

If things are pretty routine then it is very likely he is cutting more jaw teeth -- the ones in back that come around 2 yrs are very painful for them and are slow to emerge.

It is also right about the time that children will start to really cling to mommy - it's sort of the second phase of separation anxiety (1 fear of strangers; 2 losing mommy).

Mostly, make sure he has opportunities to eat, and the foods are relatively soft.

Make sure he stays hydrated. (don't give him cow's milk, because he is under two.)

Don't let him have anything "junky" - some kids like to hold out because they know they can get a favorite treat (ice cream or soda) if they do.

Remember that a kid will not willingly starve themselves, if healthy food is available.

Be sure and stick to a regular eating routine, so that he knows food comes at meal times and a couple of healthy snacks at certain times

- I usually gave breakfast at 7am snack at 10 am then lunch at noon-thirty, snack at 3:30pm, and supper at 6:30. I would sometimes offer a snack just before bedtime and tooth brushing if they were going through a growth spurt and seemed extra hungry. (5-6 times a day - depending on the kid).

Be prepared for him to turn his nose. Tell him that if he doesn't want it, you will put it up for him to have later. (Put a piece of wrap over it and then offer it the next time food time comes around. That way you aren't fixing new stuff every time. )

Hang in there it will be okay.

Answer 4

Could be that the cold is causing a loss of appetite or maybe just teething. If you're really concerned, check with your peds. Peds may suggest use of a toddler beverage for a while until his appetite returns to ensure that he's getting all the nutrients he needs. May suggest Pediasure but I like organic products and have used Baby's Only Organic Toddler. Hope this helps.

Answer 5

Could be what's called appetite slump. It is normal for toddlers to go through this. It may seem like some days he eats good and other days maybe a bite or two. There appetite is less than what we are previously used to. Small portions are key. Keep offering him a good variety and he will eat when he is hungry. If you are concerned though that he is sick, talk with his doctor.

Answer 6

I agree with a lot of people who say it's normal. My kids would aoften go thru what I call"feast or famine" They do not need a lot to eat and he may be getting more calories than you think. I understand how nerve racking it can be.If he is coming down with something you'll know in time. In the meantime try a lot of fruit smoothies (there is a recipe out there for a pbj smoothie peanut butter and blueberries i think!) and ovaltine. I always think it is a good time for chocolate ice cream milk shakes! Lots of carbs and protein and calcium! I used to drink them while training for a marathon!
OH! his whining and clingy more than not I'd bet he is picking up on your vibe something is wrong and you are anxious! Don't worry!

Answer 7

My daughter did the EXACT same thing when she was 18 months old. Except, she didn't eat a THING for an entire week, she just simply refused it! She ended up losing two pounds but I took her to the pediatrician and he said she was fine and normal. Babies do this for no apparent reason, though his cold may be making him not want to eat. As long as he is getting something in his belly, he will be fine! Its okay, he's just a little one!

Answer 8

If not teething jusy a phase he is going through. Make sure he gets enough liquids and give him nutrious foods . Even if he does not eat a lot one teaspoon will keep him a float. As long as he is not losing a lot of weight with his not eating don't worry about it.
Let him be your guide. If he is hungry he will scream for food.

Answer 9

my son is 16 months old also and is doing the same thing. he is cutting teeth and has a small cold though. maybe he just doesn't feel well. my son used to eat a ton, now he eats a little and is very clingy also. he might be teething or it could be a growth spurt, you never know.

Answer 10

It's normal. As long as he's not losing weight he'll be fine. Try to make every bite that he goes take count though. Offer foods frequently, but don't push. You cannot force him to eat, it's a simple fact. The more you push, the less likely he is to eat. Just offer him food and if he doesn't want it, try again later.