Trying to get a toddler to eat is sometimes like…well, I can’t even compare it. There are no words. As a result, we parents seem to always worry about our little ones getting enough to eat. Conventional wisdom tells us to just relax, continue to offer new foods and allow our toddlers to eat when they are hungry. But is there ever a danger of our toddlers becoming nutritionally deficient?
While it isn’t likely that your toddler is nutritionally deficient, it is a good idea to know the signs, just to be safe. First of all, if you are all concerned, you can begin to keep a height and weight chart. Your pediatrician already is keeping track of this information, and you can request a copy from the office.
Most toddlers need between 1,000 and 1,300 calories a day.
Kids develop at different rates, and this is largely determined by genetics. However, a gradual decline to a lower percentile can be a cause for concern. A few percentage points may be normal, but if she suddenly drops from the 60th percentile to the 40th percentile in a few short months, then you might want to have her checked.
Here are some other physical signs that your toddler might be nutritionally deficient.
Brittle hair that can be pulled out too easily, is dry, sparse and looks like wires.
Gums that are bleeding and spongy.
Skin that is wrinkled, dry, flaky, and contains lots of bruises or spider veins.
Feet that are swollen.
Eyes that suddenly have dark circles, are dull and bloodshot. Your child may have a hard time seeing at night.
Muscles that are tender and spongy.
Lips that have sores at the corners of the mouth. These sores don’t heal.
Teeth with many cavities. They may even be brittle and break.
Bones that show though prominently, especially in the ribs.
Nails that are thin and concave.
If you suspect that there is a problem, bring your child in for a visit with the pediatrician.
You can read more blog posts by Mary Ann Romans here!
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