Why Won’t Baby Eat?

Teething pain: Teething can cause discomfort and inflammation in the gums, making it difficult for your baby to eat. They may cry or fuss while eating, and may resist taking the breast or bottle.

Ear infection: Ear infections can cause pain and discomfort, which can make eating difficult. Your baby may pull away from the breast or bottle, and may have difficulty sucking or swallowing.

Gastroesophageal reflux: Reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation and discomfort. This can make eating difficult and painful, and may cause your baby to cry or fuss during feedings.

Constipation: Constipation can cause abdominal pain and discomfort, which can make it difficult for your baby to eat. They may have hard, infrequent stools, and may cry or fuss during bowel movements.

Illness: Illness can cause a decrease in appetite and make eating difficult. If your baby is sick, they may not feel like eating, and may vomit or have diarrhea.

Distractions: Babies can easily become distracted during feedings, which can make it difficult for them to eat. Things like loud noises, bright lights, and other people in the room can all distract your baby from eating.

Oral thrush: Thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth that can cause white patches or sores on the tongue and inside of the mouth. This can make it painful for your baby to eat, and they may refuse to breastfeed or take a bottle.

Underlying medical conditions: Some underlying medical conditions, such as allergies, anemia, and cystic fibrosis, can cause eating difficulties. If your baby has any of these conditions, they may have difficulty gaining weight and may need special feeding methods.

Pickiness: Some babies may simply be picky eaters and refuse to eat certain foods or at certain times. This can be a frustrating challenge, but it is important to be patient and avoid forcing your baby to eat anything they don’t want.

If you are concerned about your baby’s eating habits, talk to your doctor. They can help you identify the cause of the problem and recommend ways to improve your baby’s eating.