Eating difficulties / weight loss in children

Tell your medical team about any side-effects that are making it hard for your child to eat. For example:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Sore mouth
• Fatigue
• Taste changes – for example, food may taste different, bitter or metallic
• Pain

• Offer lots of different foods – your child’s taste may change and they may prefer something different to usual. Try to find out which foods taste best to them. 
• Encourage the child to eat when they’re hungry.
• Offer small meals and snacks throughout the day rather than 3 big meals.
• Go for high-calorie, high protein foods.
• Make mealtimes enjoyable. Try to eat together as a family and don’t rush your child or force them to eat.
• Limit meal times and try not to nag or argue about food.
• Give your child drinks that have some nutrition, such as milk shakes and smoothies.
• Getting some fresh air and exercise may help your child’s appetite.
• Speak to the hospital dietitian for advice and support.

This is where a soft tube that is passed through the nose into the stomach. Nasogastric tubes are usually temporary and are removed when eating is back to normal.  

A tube passed through the wall of your child’s abdomen (tummy) into their stomach to give liquid food directly into their stomach. PEG tubes are usually temporary but can be left in permanently, if needed.

A solution containing all the calories, protein, vitamins, minerals, and fluids given to your child through a central line. Total parenteral nutrition is only given when your child is in hospital.