Question
A two-year-old child frequently vomits during meals and also experiences dry heaves at times. There are also instances of vomiting during bowel movements. Although the child’s overall health is good, the parents are puzzled about the cause of the vomiting. The child dislikes vegetables and prefers to eat porridge. We would like to understand the main reasons for the child’s vomiting.
Answer
Children’s digestive systems are not fully developed; their stomach capacity is small and the pressure of the pyloric sphincter is low, leading to vomiting. Here are some suggestions:
- Eat in small portions, avoiding giving too much food at once to allow the intestines time to adapt and absorb.
- Start with thin foods and gradually increase their consistency, without rushing.
- Gently pat the child’s back after meals to help alleviate vomiting.
- Avoid forcing the child to eat to prevent anorexia (nourishment aversion).
- Consider giving some complementary foods that aid in digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Pay attention to keeping the child’s abdomen warm.