Start with small, frequent meals
It is important to note that when a child is experiencing diarrhea, their appetite may decrease due to the discomfort they feel. Therefore, it is important to offer them small and frequent meals to help them overcome their reluctance to eat. Small, nutrient-dense meals will aid in rehydration, help replace lost energy, and reduce the load on the digestive system. You can start with something simple such as bananas or rice cereal.
Make the meal appealing
One way to encourage a child to eat is by making the meal more attractive. It’s really important to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere around mealtime. Use brightly colored plates or fun cutlery that will excite them. Additionally, having foods that are visually appealing will make the food more attractive to the child. You can cut fruits and veggies into appealing shapes or use cookie cutters.
Keep meals simple and bland
When a child is experiencing diarrhea, they may have a sensitive stomach. Thus, it is important to keep the meals simple and bland. Avoid spicy or fried foods, as they may worsen the condition or irritate the stomach. It’s also best to use mild seasonings such as salt, pepper or herbs like thyme on food. Offer lean protein sources such as chicken or fish and add in easily digestible carbohydrates such as pasta or rice.
Involve them in meal plans
Involving your child in meal planning can make them more interested in eating. Let them help you choose the meals and encourage them to assist with food preparation. This will create a sense of involvement and also give them a sense of accomplishment when they take part in the process. It creates a feeling of control to the child and can make them more willing to eat the meal.
Use familiar foods
When your child is feeling unwell, they are more likely to stick to familiar foods. This is an ideal time to serve foods that they are familiar with and have always loved. Giving them unfamiliar foods can make them even more hesitant to eat. This can also reduce the child’s stress around mealtime when eating is already difficult.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be difficult to convince a child with diarrhea to eat. However, it is vital that they consume nutrient-dense and easy to digest foods to help speed up the recovery process. It is important to serve small, frequent, and appealing meals that the child will enjoy. Additionally, involve them in the meal planning process and serve them familiar foods. By following these tips, your child will be able to recover quickly and return to their normal routine. Remember, if their condition is not improving or you are concerned, you should contact your pediatrician for further advice.