🍴👨👩👦👦 Do you have a picky eater at home? Sometimes picky eating is caused by sensory or metabolic issues. Usually, though, kids need encouragement to try new things. Here are some tips to help!
🍎 Cut back on snacking. While snacks are important, it’s essential to make sure your child is getting the majority of their nutrients from meals. If your child is snacking too much, they won’t have a good appetite at mealtime.
🎨 Focus on presentation! Presentation matters when it comes to getting kids to try new foods. One study found that children were more likely to try a new food when it was presented in a visually appealing way. Try serving food on fun, colorful plates or arranging it in a fun shape.
🍽️ Have a balance of macros. Aim to have a mix of protein, carbs and fats in each meal 🍠🍳🥑 with plenty of polyphenol-rich fruits and veggies. 🍓🥕🍓🥬 This helps to maintain good blood sugar levels, promotes satiety and aids digestion.
🍗 Serve one food your child loves. Including a food that your child already loves in their meal can make trying new foods less intimidating. Repeatedly exposing children to new foods, especially in a supportive environment, can increase the likelihood that they’ll eventually accept and enjoy those foods. 😍
🍲 Variety is the spice of life! Offering a variety of foods can help prevent boredom and encourage your child to try new things. 🍇🥩🥦
👩🍳 Have your child help with food prep! Getting your child involved in the cooking process can make them more interested in trying new foods. It’s also a great way to teach them about nutrition and healthy eating habits. Let your child help with tasks such as washing vegetables, stirring, measuring ingredients, or setting the table.
I want to hear from you! Do you have a picky eater? What tips would you share?