Loss of Appetite

If Your Child is
Upset or Depressed

Being upset or depressed about being sick can affect appetite.

  • Try to praise good eating and use small rewards to encourage good eating
  • Avoid arguing, nagging, or punishing because it may make the situation worse

Tip 1:  Try small meals often throughout the day

Tip 2:  If the child is not eating much, quality counts. Try to give foods that have a high nutritional value or a nutritional supplement your doctor or dietitian recommends.

Tip 3:  Serve favorite foods (but not during nausea/vomiting)

Tip 4:  Be sure the surroundings are pleasant at mealtime

Tip 5:  Try changing the time/place of meals once in a while, i.e. a picnic in the house or invite a special friend to join the meal<

Tip 6: Plan a variety in color, texture and temperature of foods at each meal and snack

Tip 7:  Breakfast is an important meal.  Interest in food often declines as the day goes on

Tip 8:  Add flavor to foods by using different seasonings

Tip 9:  Marinate meats in sauces or fruit juices for extra flavor

Tip 10:  If possible, light exercise (such as walking) before mealtimes may be helpful

Tip 11:  Have healthy snacks handy

THIS TOOL DOES NOT GIVE MEDICAL ADVICE.
It is for informational use only. It does not take the place of getting advice from a doctor for diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore your doctor's advice or wait to get medical help because of something you have read on this site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or dial 911 right away.  Read disclaimer information.