Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
Concerned about not gaining weight
My cousin doesn't eat anything. Whenever we try to feed rice and dal she keeps avoiding it and does not eat the rice. Her weight is 9 kg and she looks very thin. What can we feed her so that she can eat and gain some weight?
Answers (13)
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced doctor online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
• A child avoiding food + low weight (9 kg) + appearing thin suggests poor caloric intake and possible undernutrition
• Most commonly this is due to:
– Picky eating / behavioral feeding issues
– Low appetite
– Sometimes underlying deficiencies or recurrent infections
Next Steps
• First, assess basics:
– Age of child (very important for weight interpretation)
– Deworming status
– Any recurrent illness / diarrhea
• Diet strategy (don’t force rice-dal only):
Health Tips
• Do NOT force feed → worsens refusal
• Make food:
– Soft, tasty, slightly sweet/savory
– Visually attractive
• Fixed meal timing + no junk in between
• Limit milk to not more than 400–500 ml/day (excess milk reduces appetite)
• Family eating together improves intake
Answered
Let others know if this answer was helpful
What is her age? In children Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is often seen because of which they avoid eating food. Behind these there are various psychological reasons. Get a proper evaluation as to why she is avoiding food. Start getting different flavours and colours in the food. Often children start eating when they are stimulated by different flavours and colours. I provide online consultation and therapy support you can contact me directly on nine eight two six five four five six six zero for a detailed evaluation and management.
Answered
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Please share detailed medical history of your cousin. Get her blood sugar, thyroid function tests and Haemoglobin done and share results.
She should take diet more in proteins, carbohydrates, drink more water, take regular exercise.
Answered
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Articles you may like
Tell us what's troubling you
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.