Question
My child is 1 year and 8 months old, weighing only 16 pounds and standing at 77 centimeters tall. Although they haven’t started walking independently yet (but can walk with support), and they can’t speak. Since birth, their appetite has been poor. We have supplemented them with calcium, zinc, and vitamin AD drops, but it seems that absorption is not good. Doctor, what should I do to ensure my child eats better and sleeps soundly? We have seen many doctors, but the situation seems to have not improved. What should a mother do?
Answer
Hello: Based on the situation you described, the first step is to actively strengthen nutrition. First, the dietary type for young children is generally similar to adults and can be divided into regular food, soft food, semi-liquid food, and liquid food. Children aged 3 to 7 have slightly lower digestive and absorptive abilities compared to adults, so they should choose easily digestible, easy-to-chew, soft foods. Increase protein intake appropriately, with animal protein as the main source. Secondly, avoid the following types of food: first, all irritating foods such as chili, mustard, pepper, coffee, etc.; secondly, try to eat less fried or oily foods, overly acidic or salty foods; thirdly, children under 4 years of age should not eat whole hard nuts such as peanuts, walnuts, almonds, chestnuts, and sunflower seeds as these can easily enter the trachea and pose a risk. Children over 4 years of age should also reduce consumption. Fourthly, fish with spines and chicken or beef with bones. Children are in the growth and development phase and have a higher calcium requirement than adults, so it is necessary to supplement calcium in a timely manner to prevent calcium deficiency. Here are some points to note for correct calcium supplementation. First, whether…