Ensuring that children receive a balanced and healthy diet during illness is vital to their recovery and protection against further infections, nutrition and child health experts have said. They also stress the importance of instilling healthy eating habits early in life. Experts note that when children, particularly those under five, fall ill, loss of appetite is often one of the earliest symptoms. Although this can worry parents, maintaining proper nutrition remains critical for recovery.
Health specialists say that making informed dietary choices during illness can help support the body's natural process, even when children eat less than usual.
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has repeatedly emphasized that good nutrition is central to early childhood development and survival. According to the agency, adequate nutrition gives children the opportunity to reach their full potential.
UNICEF explained that illness reduces both appetite and the body's ability to use food effectively. "When children are sick, such as when they have diarrhoea, measles, or pneumonia, their appetite decreases and their body uses food less effectively. It is very important to encourage a sick child to eat," the organisation said.
Acknowledging the challenge this poses for caregivers, UNICEF added: "This can be difficult, as children who are ill may not hungry. You should keep offering foods the child likes, a little at a time and as often as possible."
A former President of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, Prof. Wasiu Afolabi, advised parents against serving meals that lack sufficient protein, vitamins and essential minerals. Speaking in an earlier interview with PUNCH Healthwise, he said children require well-rounded nutrition for proper physical and mental development, even during illness.
“Nutrition is very important. A child who is hungry cannot concentrate, and a malnourished child is lethargic. If we can achieve adequate nutrition, we will see that other underlying issues will be alleviated,” Afolabi said, urging parents to prioritise balanced meals to aid recovery.
Experts also highlight the importance of fluids, noting that sick children lose significant amounts of water and energy through fever, sweating and, in some cases, diarrhoea. While reduced appetite is normal, the body still requires energy, hydration and essential nutrients to fight infection.
They recommend small, frequent meals, increased fluid intake, and nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein, probiotics and zinc-containing foods. Parents are advised to be patient, avoid forcing food, prioritise hydration, and seek medical advice if illness persists, stressing that calm, supportive mealtimes can help children recover faster.
