My two-year-old son does not like to eat solid food. He drinks only milk, mango shakes, banana shakes and so on. If fed forcefully, he vomits. Sometimes, though, he eats properly. His weight is normal for his age. Can you suggest how we can increase his appetite?

answer

Dear Akhilesh,

The first thing to do is to make sure that there is no physiological reason your son is refusing solids. Check this with your doctor. Perhaps he has difficulty swallowing or has a reflux condition. It may be that he just has a very sensitive gag reflex.

If you have ruled out any medical reason, than you will need to cut back on the shakes and milk so that he has an appetite for other foods. Many small children prefer to drink their meals. If this is the case with your son, you will have to limit his intake of milk and shakes to no more than two glasses a day. This should help to increase his hunger and desire for other foods.

As he is not used to thicker, more textured foods, start slowly to increase the consistency and chunkiness of the foods you offer. You will have to be firm and not give in to his demands for milk rather than solids. Just be matter of fact about it. Do not bribe or offer rewards. Of course you can offer gentle encouragement.

Good luck and be patient. Thank you for writing.

ivillage uk

Two year old doesn't like solids