Parents should introduce solid foods to their babies at 6 months of age, provided the baby is full-term and the doctor has not indicated otherwise. Solid foods help babies gradually adjust to eating, but breast milk remains the primary source of nutrition. Formula milk can be used as a replacement if necessary. As children grow older, their metabolic rate increases rapidly, requiring them to consume about 3.6-4 kcal per hour. A child weighing 10 kg needs around 1100 kcal per day. At this stage, breast milk or formula milk is no longer sufficient and children should have three main meals and at least three snacks per day.
If a child refuses to eat solid foods or consumes very little and only drinks milk, it could be a sign of anorexia. Children may experience appetite loss due to various reasons, most commonly psychological ones. Prolonged anorexia can hinder a child’s physical and mental development, leading to nutrient deficiencies, slow growth, malnutrition and growth disorders. It’s crucial for parents to start feeding their children liquid or soft foods before gradually transitioning to larger or harder foods based on the child’s grasping and chewing abilities.
When managing a child with anorexia, parents need to take appropriate measures and levels of intervention. It is essential to consult a doctor for a diagnosis and intervention plan tailored to the child’s specific needs. Regular nutritional check-ups can help monitor the child’s progress and ensure they receive the necessary nutrients. Without prompt and proper intervention, anorexia in children can worsen if left untreated.
In conclusion, parents play an important role in introducing solid foods to their babies while ensuring they receive adequate nutrition through breast milk or formula milk until they are old enough for three main meals and snacks per day. It’s crucial for parents to monitor their children’s progress when dealing with issues such as anorexia by seeking medical attention promptly and following up with regular nutritional check-ups
