5 year old vegetarian

by Lauren
(Alabama)

My 5yo seems to show some signs of SPD in relation to textures and the sensation of being hungry. He basically only eats fruit, vegetables and crackers. He alternates between not eating for days and binging on fruit until he has diarrhea. He usually has diahhrea 2 to 3 times per week. He is five and a half, but still wears a 3T in clothing and looks very small for his age.

Even though he doesn't feel hungry, he has meltdowns if he has not had anything to eat or drink for a few hours. As soon as he has something to drink he is better.

On the flip side, he is thirsty all the time. His teachers say he is drinking water all day at school. He survives soles on chocolate milk. I know people would say to deny him the drink until he eats but that does not work in his case. The "eventually he will be hungry and eat something" advice just does not work for a child who never feels hungry and feels full enough after a few bites to make it for days without eating.

So far, we have tried talking to the dr about his diet but have only been told that small children are picky and that he has grown SOME over the past few years. We were told to keep cooking what we have been cooking and eventually he will eat it. After noticing this site, I am beginning to think there is more going on than just being a normal picky eater or a slow grower.

Does this sound like SPD or might he have other internal issues going on as well?