Less appetite and fussy eater

Dear Doc,
I have a 5 year old daughter who makes a big fuss while eating. From childhood she has been very fussy in eating. For last couple of months she says she is not hungry and takes a lot of time to eat. Many a times she refuses to eat saying she is not hungry. Previously her bowel movemets used to be once a day but for last 2 months she passes bowels at least 3 times a day and they are usually after food intake. She keeps says she is not hungry. She wants to eat ready made pasta and noodles. She hates milk and has to be forced to drink. I am a working mother. The days I am at home she eats but takes time. Some days when I am not there she just refuses to eat.
I am really concerned about her health. Is there something wrong with her health? Should I go for some checksups?

[Renee Radenberg]

Her weight is on the 10th percentile and her height is just above the 25th percentile for her age. She is within the Growth Chart which indicates she is normal for her age unless she has lost weight. Some children from approximately 2 years old and older do become 'picky' eaters. It can be frustrating for the parents / caregivers. Forcing her to eat will not help. If she does not like milk, have you tried giving her yogurt, yogurt smoothies, or puddings instead? Have you tried to flavor the milk with chocolate or strawberry mix? Some children will not drink plain milk; however, will drink it with a flavor in it. Engage her in the kitchen more. Children love to be a part of making food. Have her help you with preparation of food and setting the table. Hopefully this will increase her interest in other types of food. The most important thing is to RELAX. You do not want mealtimes to be a battle of the wits between your child and you. Remember meals need to be joyous for you and her. If she will not eat a certain food, do not make a fuss over it. Give her some other food alternatives that she likes. Then let it go and enjoy the meal. Lead by example. Slowly introduce new foods, and if she does not want it, do not make a fuss over it. Let it go and enjoy the meal. Try again in a few months. Sometimes it takes 5-9 times to introduce a food to a child that they will accept the new food. Hope this helped you..