Fussy Eaters. What to do when your child won't eat.
"My child won't eat their Vegetables". "My toddler is so fussy and won't try new food!" These are common quotes and familiar terms often made by parents with children who have picky eaters. As children grow, especially reaching the 2 year milestone, their nutrient and calorie intake slows down. Some will become fussy eaters by this stage, however over time they slowly outgrow this phase.
There are many strategies to deal with fussy eaters. But quite often it's a different approach for different children. What may work for one child, may not for another. What is important to know is that there may be a few underlying causes and it may be trial and error get to the root of the behaviour. The following information will outline these for you.
What could be the underlying causes. Nutrient Deficiencies
Zinc Zinc is the number one mineral to consider. It is required for growth, development, repair and producing stomach acid. So if digestive issues occur so may fussy eating. So how do you know if your child is low in Zinc? Well there are a few signs that you can look for, and they include:
Low immunity/frequent colds & Flu
Slow healing of wounds
Long recovery time from illness
White spots on fingernails
Hair, skin or nail issues
Zinc can be found in red meat, seafood, whole grains and a variety of nuts & seeds. Pumpkin seeds are a great easy source as they can be ground up and used in smoothies or sprinkled over cereal. Food is medicine and should be the first step in building up nutrient stores, but sometimes a quality supplement may have to be used to help bring back balance to a nutrient deficiency. A nutritionist or health practitioner can help with regards to the best supplement and dose.
Iron & B12 The two nutrients are very closely linked. If iron is low then usually so is the B12 and vice versa. A simple blood test will confirm a deficiency in these nutrients. Most common signs and symptoms include:
On going tiredness and lethargy
Pale appearance
Tired after play or exerting them self weakness
Dizziness
The best food source for Iron and B12 is red meat, green leafy vegetables, fish, chicken and eggs. Vegetarian Children are most at risk as they are not consuming these types of foods. Iron and B12 can be taken as a supplement and as always it best to work with your practitioner.
What could be the underlying causes? Gut or Digestive issues You've may of heard of how important it is to have a healthy gut, but do you know why? When your gut is performing optimally it can absorb all the important nutrients from the food we have ingested. However if the gut showing signs of an imbalance, such as bloating, pain, loose stools, constipation, your child may not feel like eating at all and the vicious cycle continues of fussy eating and nutrient malabsorption. Possible causes for gut issues may include:
Antibiotic use
Over use of medication
Pesticides
Over use of hand sanitisers
High sugar/processed food intake
Stress
Food Allergies/Intolerances
It's always best to seek advice if you feel gut issues may be the cause. Sensory Issues Food sensory issues can be the cause of fussy eating for some children. Often these children find eating a challenge, and can pose quite a quest for parents around meal times. Sensory issues often steam from neurological imbalances, so nurturing the nervous system maybe beneficial. Tips for Fussy Eaters
Set a good example and role model good eating habits
Some Children cope better with small meals and snacks in between.
Keep meal times regular as Children thrive on routine.
Try to avoid filling up on juice, milk or water before meals.
Think outside the square, if they don't want to chew steak, try mince.
If they If they don't like milk, try yogurt or cheese.
Treat any issues such as sore tummy, blocked nose, teething to get your child's health back on track.
Keep offering new foods so they become familiar. It may take up to 20 times before it's excepted.
Get the child involved; menu planning shopping and cooking makes it more fun!
Information in this article should be a guideline only. Always seek medical advice if you are unsure.