Nourishing Our Minds & Bodies | Is My Child A Picky Eater?
Nourishing Our Minds & Bodies
Is My Child A Picky Eater?
Featuring: Kara Strum
Sanford Health is a proud partner of BIO Girls. Sanford Health is a remarkable organization dedicated to sharing God’s love through the work of health, healing and comfort. This January, they are focused on the importance of nourishing both our minds and bodies. We are excited to feature insights from Kara Strum, who, in this blog will share her expertise on managing picky eating in children.
Is My Child A Picky Eater?
Kara Strum, RD, LRD
As a pediatric dietitian I meet with families all the time who are struggling with their child being very selective with food. I invite you to think about all of the different varieties of food combinations out there. We often want to try new foods but are not always drawn to all foods.
Of course, we all have our favorite foods, and they differ from person to person. Now think of the first time you tried food. Like all things practice makes perfect so be sure to offer new foods multiple times to children. They may not always be excited to try things, ahem vegetables, but it is so important for families to still offer veggies at meal and snack time.
When offering new foods be sure to have about 2 foods that you know your child likes and keep the new foods to about 1 per meal. Any more than 1 new food a meal can be overwhelming. For some kids it can take up to 30 different exposures to food before it is accepted. An exposure can be accepting it on their plate, playing around with food, touching the food to your lips, and even trying the food.
I encourage families to have your little one help grocery shop every once in a while, and pick out something from the store. Prepping or helping in the kitchen can spark interest in new foods too. Children have a sense of accomplishment when they help prep foods and might be more curious to try things. Another great trick is to serve food in fun plates or bowls or even using a special fork or spoon when serving a new food.
If your kiddo has loved a food a little too much, eating it for every meal could cause food burnout. Variety of foods is key for all. Practice eating the rainbow for a wide variety of nutrients. Another topic that we discuss is a multivitamin in order to prevent any possible nutrient deficiencies. These are especially appropriate for children who refuse entire food groups such as vegetables or dairy. These can also be discussed with your child’s doctor.
If it feels like you have tried every trick under the sun, please check in with your child’s pediatrician who can refer to a nutrition expert or dietitian for an individualized plan to meet your child’s nutrition goals.