Question
Our 2-year-old baby has always had a poor appetite and is very thin. Recently, he often feels dry heaves while eating and has no appetite. After seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, it was found that his spleen and stomach are not in good condition. Can I use traditional Chinese medicine for treatment?
Answer
If a child has a lack of appetite, refuses to eat, and shows delayed growth, it is mainly related to weak spleen and stomach and a deficiency of trace elements. Currently, you can first check for trace elements; deficiencies in zinc or iron can lead to a lack of appetite, picky eating, and selective eating, which require appropriate supplementation. Additionally, pay attention to a balanced diet, change dietary habits, stimulate the child’s appetite, increase physical activity, and consider taking Chinese medicine for adjustment under a doctor’s guidance.