Does my child have a feeding problem?
by RachelTheWriterIs my baby eating too much, too little or the right amount? This question can cause intense anxiety in parents, who want to ensure that their child’s nutritional needs are being met in the best way. Babies and children are prone to stomach upsets which can temporarily disrupt their feeding patterns. This in itself is no cause for concern, as the problem should quickly right itself. But if you are worried about your child, the following advice may help you decide whether or not your child really does have a problem.
Babies:
Newborn babies may take a while to get the hang of breastfeeding, so this can be a cause for concern for mothers. But the main thing to check is whether your baby is gaining the weight it should – if it is, then there’s absolutely no cause for concern.
If your baby suddenly changes its feeding patterns, this could be due to a minor infection such as a cold. If this clears up quickly then there is no need for worry, but if it lingers and your baby fails to gain any weight then go and see a physician for advice.
There are several conditions that can prevent absorption of nutrients and stop your baby from thriving – these range from food intolerances to cystic fibrosis.
Older children:
Children and teenagers are more likely to be psychologically fussy eaters, and choose not to eat because the food ‘looks funny’ or because their best friend has told them it is disgusting. Generally this is no cause for concern, and you can deal with these whims as you see fit. But keep an eye out for more serious conditions in older children and teenagers. Binge eating, vomiting and starving are all indicators of eating disorders. If you’re worried, take your child to the doctor.
It can be difficult to know exactly what to look out for when diagnosing feeding problems, but this list of symptoms should give you a good idea of what’s a cause for concern:
Refusing food or picking at it
Failure to gain weight normally
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Pain before and after eating
Crying before and after eating
Remember that feeding problems in small children often clear up surprisingly quickly, but see your doctor if you are at all concerned.
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