Appetite is a conscious desire for food and it is regulated mainly by the gastrointestinal system, central nervous system, pancreas and adrenal glands. The role of the endocannabinoid system in the regulation of appetite is not certain. Personal, familial, economic and sociocultural factors may affect appetite. In this review, approaches to a child with low appetite who presented a problem for his/her family and doctor are discussed in the light of recent literature.

Keywords: child, appetite, nutrition