Why has my 1 year 5 month old baby suddenly stopped eating for 8-10 days?

When a young child suddenly stops eating, several factors could be at play. It’s common at this age for children to go through phases of being more, or less interested in food. However, if this lasts 8-10 days, it’s worth considering a few possibilities. One common reason could be teething, which can cause discomfort and make eating painful. If she’s drooling more than usual or has swollen gums, this might be the case. Also, toddlers often have fluctuating appetites and may naturally decrease their food intake due to slower growth rates compared to the first year of life. Also, look for signs of illness; common infections like a cold, ear infections, or gastrointestinal bugs can reduce a child’s appetite. Pay attention to any other symptoms she may have like fever, irritability or lethargy. Another possibility is a change in the environment or routine that might cause stress or anxiety, affecting her appetite. Lastly, sometimes, a child might be filling up on liquids, whether it’s milk or juices, which reduces hunger for solid food. While her weight of 8.7 kg is on the lower side for her age, it’s essential to look at her growth pattern over time and not just single measurements. If she was following her growth curve and suddenly drops off, that could indicate a problem. I’d suggest scheduling a visit with your pediatrician to rule out any serious underlying issues, ensure she’s well-hydrated, and is not missing any key nutrients. They can check for any physical issues, assess growth and development, and offer specific advice or interventions that might be needed. If any red flags like dehydration, persistent vomiting, or significant weight loss are present, don’t delay seeking medical attention. Meanwhile, offering small meals of her favorite foods and minimizing stress at mealtime might help encourage her to eat.