One of the top reasons children see a dietitian is to combat picky eating early on. Working on creating more diverse eating habits can help to ensure that kids are getting proper nutrients that they need in order to grow. Here are some tips from a Registered Dietitian to help combat picky eating.
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- Have your kids help to pick out fruits and vegetables in the store
Give them some power in choosing what new fresh foods they can try. If they pick it out, they may be more willing to give it a try. - Get them involved in preparing meals
Similar to having your child help to pick out fresh produce, get them involved in the process of making food. Let them help to measure, wash produce, or mix depending on their age and ability. Being involved could help them feel more excited to try their creation. - Give them a plate of several foods and let them pick which food to try today
- Serve new foods with foods you know they like
It can help to have familiar, liked foods when trying a new food. - Wait a couple days before offering a food again
Sometimes it can take up to 12 attempts for a child to accept a new food. - Ask them to use their senses
Figure out what they do not like about the food, is it the smell? Taste? Texture? Maybe they would like potatoes mashed but not cubed. - Seek out a Registered Dietitian
An RD can help to diversify diet along with make sure they are getting all the nutrients they need in order to continue healthy growth.
Brianna De la Cruz RDN, MS
