Common Reasons Why Your Baby Refuses To Eat
Have you noticed your little one turning down meal time? Here are some common reasons why your baby is starting to refuse to eat during mealtime.
Food refusal is common in babies and children. Luckily, there are many ways to remedy their stubbornness and disinterest. Here are common reasons your baby is refusing to eat during mealtime.
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Baby Experiences Boredom
As your babies grow, they can experience food disinterest due to boredom. Observe them and see if they take notice of the food you eat instead of eating their food.
You’ll notice their interest in solids if they reach out for your food or open their mouth when you have food nearby. If they’re still on baby formula or breastmilk, consider letting them try small, solid foods to taste or feel. Have them try different solids alongside their liquids to make mealtime more enjoyable.
Your Baby Has Constipation
Another common reason your little one won’t eat is due to constipation. If you notice that your baby’s bowel movements are further apart when they lose interest in their food, they could feel constipated. A few ways to prevent constipation for formula-fed babies are to change their formula to a gentler, easily digestible formula and to get them moving around.
Too Much Fluid Intake
Too much fluid intake can result in an uncomfortably full stomach for babies. Also, because of their small stomachs, too many liquids can result in them refusing to eat their meals. It’s more likely to occur in babies learning to eat solids, so make sure you space out their fluid intake between meals.
Constant Distractions
If you notice your baby not taking an interest in feeding time, it could be due to them being distracted. Babies have short attention spans, which results in them being easily distracted. Instead of feeding them around TVs, rowdy and loud conversations, or energetic music, take them to a quiet room to help redirect their attention. Calming music with low lighting and uninterrupted bonding time can help your baby relax and prevent over- or undereating.
Talk to your pediatrician for their opinion when your child expresses disinterest in their meals. Some remedies work better than others, but your child will eventually overcome their lack of interest in their food. Remember to practice patience.
