Fussy Eating - explained by a Paediatric Dietitian

Fussy Picky Eating is an umbrella term used to explain particular eating habits/food refusal in children. It is very common for children to display fussy eating habits, but the underlying cause can definitely vary.  

There are about 10 underlying causes of fussy eating and it's important that you understand why a child is fussy, in order to be able to truly fix it.

Children may have aversions to the taste, shape, color, or texture of certain foods. Additionally, children may experience changes in their food preferences from one day to the next, be hesitant to try new foods, and consume varying amounts of food on different days. Children can have sensory challenges with food together with anxiety around trying new foods.

The feeding environment is also crucial in the development of healthy eating behaviours.

Picky eating behaviors can be a natural part of children's developmental process as they explore their surroundings and establish their independence, however it can become problematic if it continues on for many years.

Picky eaters are at risk of nutritional deficiencies, which is why it's important that you seek professional advice if you are worried that your child's intake is too restrictive. 

How can a paediatric dietitian help?

A paediatric dietitian that is specialised in fussy eating can support you and your family in several ways:

Assess your child's current eating habits: A paediatric dietitian can assess your child's eating habits, including the foods they eat, the portion sizes, and any potential nutrients that may be lacking. They can then make suggestions on how to target these nutrients as nutrient deficiencies can have serious consequences which in turn can impact problem/fussy eating.

Understand the root cause:  Whilst offering veggies on the plate is a strategy often discussed, it really is a "bandaid" treatment, as the underlying cause of the fussy eating has not yet been identified. Underlying causes such as food sensitivities, anxiety, poor feeding environmental or behavioral issues. A dietitian can work with you to identify any underlying conditions, work with you on them (for those within our scope) and/or refer you on to other health care professionals who can assist with those concerns. Often you may have 'put up' with certain aspects and not realised how closely

Offer advice on feeding children: If your child is a fussy eater, a dietitian can provide advice on reducing the stress at meal times, suggest steps to increase the variety of foods the child eats, provide advice on which foods to include to target key nutrients that may have been identified as being low in the current diet, create a positive eating environment, and deal with mealtime challenges.

Support and encouragement: A paediatric dietitian will provide reassurance, support and encouragement throughout the process of overcoming fussy eating, helping you and your family to make positive changes and develop healthy habits. Whilst also assisting you to reduce the stress around meal times

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