If you have kids, you probably have a picky eater or two. There’s two different kinds of picky eaters: voluntary and involuntary. If your child’s eating seems out of their control, it might be. My son went from being a great eater to severely restricting what he could choke down almost overnight. When we treated my son’s infection, the psychological food restriction started getting way better. For most people though, being a picky eater is voluntary and just part of growing up. Some of the things I’ve learned will help people in either camp.
1. Zinc is my best friend. It helps my son so much. There’s some science behind it but all you need to know is to try it. Ask your pediatrician for proper dosage for your little one. We crush up zinc and mix it into our son’s applesauce. It also is great for supporting the body during detoxing which we are always doing as well.
2. Salt can help. I always thought that people said this because of a taste preference but it turns out there is a scientific reason behind using salt as well. It triggers saliva production which helps stimulate the appetite. (If it wasn’t essential, I might consider cutting out salt to help my waistline.)
3. Make it fun. Let them have a part in making their food. Make some healthy muffins, pancakes, or cookies. These foods are the perfect disguise for fruits and veggies at our house when we’re not able to eat the fruits and veggies.
4. Let them pick. Letting me them feel in control a little really helps. Obviously, we don’t want them completely in control or it’d be cookies and ice cream every meal but give them a couple options.
5. Bribery. What’s the end goal? The end goal is to expand their palette. If the bribe of a few dairy free chocolate chips helps them choke down some veggies, I’ll consider that a win. I want them to eat it again and again until they’ve decided it’s not so bad or maybe they even start to like it.
6. Show them grace. Sometimes it’s not in their control and we need to help figure out what’s really going on. If you have concerns about your child’s eating, see a medical professional. There are so many medical reasons that might cause them to struggle: gut issues, infections, and so many others. I would suggest finding a holistic practitioner close to you as they can help get to the bottom of these things a little better.
I hope this helps give you some things to try. I also hope that God helps you with patience and grace because I’ve had to ask for help with these things a lot in our picky eating journey! It definitely can be a struggle. Best of luck to you!
Health Drama Mama 