How to help kids gain back their appetite after sickness! Why kids don’t want to eat when they’re sick and what you can do to encourage nutrition.
Nobody can prepare you for how much you’ll want to help your kiddo when they’re not feeling well. Other than the extra snuggles, PJs-all-day, and screen time, there’s not usually much we can do to speed the process along.
What about when they’re not eating? This can be concerning as a parent, but there are some things you can do in the meantime. We’re covering why kids lose their appetite when they’re sick and some tips for encouraging it to come back.
What Makes Kids Lose Their Appetite?
Nobody feels good when they’re sick, and often one of the first things to go is appetite. This could be because of nausea, fatigue, upset stomach, or due to the fact that it’s super annoying trying to eat (let alone breathe) when your face is congested.
But did you know that there can also be physiological reasons behind loss of appetite when we’re sick? For example, when the immune system is fighting off germs it releases chemicals called cytokines. These can suppress your child’s appetite as part of the body’s natural defense mechanism against infection.
Furthermore, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can reduce appetite and make eating seem less appealing. This is one reason why we always push fluids when our kiddos aren’t feeling great.
When your child loses their sense of smell or taste, or they’ve been vomiting, this can also make the idea of eating less appealing.
When Should I Worry?
Typically, a loss of appetite related to being sick doesn’t last long – maybe a day or two while the body recouperates. During this time, continue to offer easy foods and fluids.
If your child still isn’t eating much after a few days, their illness is worsening, or you’re simply concerned, it’s always best to reach out to their pediatrician.
With their smaller bodies, kids are prone to experiencing a more significant weight loss than adults when appetite is down. This makes appetite recovery even more of a priority for littles.
How to Help Kids Gain Back Their Appetite After Sickness
No parent likes to see their kiddo not feeling well, and we want to help them get better ASAP. In most cases, we just need to let the body do it’s thing and recover. But that doesn’t mean nutrition becomes less important.
Here are some things you can do to help encourage your child’s appetite to come back:
Offer comforting foods
Provide foods that are gentle on the stomach and easy to digest, such as plain toast, crackers, rice, or soup (even just broth with noodles!). These foods can be soothing and may be more appealing to a child who isn’t feeling well.
Provide some favorites
Offer some foods that your child enjoys and finds comforting, even if they’re not necessarily the healthiest options. Familiar and favorite foods can be more enticing during illness and may encourage your child to eat.
Prioritize nutrient-dense and calorie-dense items
While it’s important to accommodate your child’s preferences, try to include nutrient-rich options whenever possible. Offer foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, and protein to support their recovery. Make smoothies that are calorie-dense, providing some solid energy in a small serving.
Encourage hydration
Offer plenty of fluids to keep your child hydrated, as dehydration can contribute to a decreased appetite. Water, herbal teas, clear broths, popsicles, smoothies, and electrolyte solutions made for kids (if vomiting/diarrhea) can be good options. You can also try flavored water or diluted fruit juices if your child prefers.
Offer small frequent meals
Instead of large meals, offer smaller, more frequent snacks throughout the day. This can be less overwhelming for a child who isn’t feeling well and may help stimulate their appetite.
Be patient
Understand that it’s normal for appetite to fluctuate during illness, and it may take time for your child’s appetite to return to normal. Be patient and supportive, and avoid expressing frustration or disappointment if your child isn’t eating as much as usual.
Monitor progress
Keep track of your child’s food and fluid intake, as well as any changes in their symptoms. This can help you gauge their progress and identify any concerns that may require medical attention.
Having a sick kiddo is tough, but hang in there! They will gain their appetite back eventually, and just focus on what you can do for them in the meantime.
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Chime In: Have other tips for a sick kiddo who doesn’t want to eat or drink? Drop them in the comments!
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