When a child is sick, everything changes. Their physical, mental and emotional states get affected, and in many cases, it leads to a loss of appetite.

It becomes a challenge for parents to ensure their child receives the right nutrients when they are not feeling well. However, it is crucial to continue feeding the child to ensure speedy recovery, especially when they are going through an acute phase of illness.

What should I keep in mind when feeding my sick child?

There are many things to consider when feeding a sick child. Here are the important things to keep in mind:.

Offer small and frequent meals

When your child is sick, they may lose their appetite or have trouble eating a full meal. Instead of forcing them to eat complete meals, try offering small and frequent meals throughout the day.

Serving small portions often makes it easier for the child to eat and digest the food. Also, eating more frequently when they are not feeling well, they will not feel bloated or nauseous.

Offer clear liquids

During the acute phase of an illness like a stomach virus, it is essential to ensure that your child is well hydrated. Clear liquids, such as water, broth, and fruit juices, can help keep them hydrated.

Sports drinks like Gatorade can help replace the electrolytes lost to diarrhea and vomiting. Avoid caffeine and carbonated drinks, as they can exacerbate dehydration.

Introduce bland foods

Introduce bland foods like crackers, toast, and boiled rice. They are easy to digest and less likely to cause an upset stomach. Avoid spicy, greasy, and high-fat foods as they can exacerbate stomach issues.

Consider their food preferences and allergies

When parents are feeding their sick child, it is essential to consider the child’s food preferences and allergies. Feeding them something that they dislike or allergic to will only make them feel more uncomfortable and, at times, sicker.

It is crucial to choose foods that they will enjoy while taking care not to compromise their nutrient intake.

Offer food with medicinal value

When a child is sick, they require extra nutrients to help support their immune system and speed-up recovery. Some foods have medicinal values that can help the child recover faster.

Offer fruits and vegetables with high vitamin content, including oranges, strawberries, kiwi, and sweet potatoes. These fruits and vegetables can help boost the child’s immune system and provide the necessary nutrients required in the healing process.

Encourage rest before and after meals

Ensure that your child rests before and after meals to ensure that they have the energy to eat and digest the food. Also, resting helps to reduce the chances of having nausea after eating.

Taking a short nap can help restore their energy levels and prepare them for the next meal.

Offer finger foods or a variety of utensils

If the child is experiencing mouth or throat pain, offer them easy-to-eat foods that do not require a lot of chewing. Soft food such as smoothies, oatmeal, and soups can be blended to make them more manageable to eat.

Offer finger foods such as apple slices or crackers that they can chew on gently. If they are experiencing throat pain, consider giving them a variety of utensils to eat with to find what is more comfortable for them.

Be patient and understanding

Feeding a sick child can be frustrating, both for the parents and the child. Be patient and understanding with your child while they are ill.

Encouraging them gently and providing them with healthy diet options can make it easier for both the child and their caregivers.

Conclusion

Feeding a sick child requires patience, creativity, and understanding. Offering small and frequent meals, bland foods, clear liquids and foods that have medicinal value can all help the child during their illness.

By considering the child’s preferences and allergies, parents can help make the recovery process easier for their child.