#asktheexpert My boy is not eat proper deit

Question

#asktheexpert  My boy is not eat proper deit

Accepted Answer

It's common for toddlers to go through phases of picky eating, but ensuring they get the necessary nutrients is important for their growth and development. Here are some strategies to help encourage a healthy diet for your two-year-old:

### 1. Establish a Routine
- **Regular Meal Times:** Serve meals and snacks at consistent times each day.
- **Limit Snacks:** Offer snacks at regular intervals and avoid letting your child snack continuously throughout the day, which can reduce their appetite at mealtimes.

### 2. Offer a Variety of Foods
- **Balanced Diet:** Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, whole grains, and dairy in your child's diet.
- **Small Portions:** Serve small portions to avoid overwhelming your child, and offer more if they are still hungry.

### 3. Be a Role Model
- **Eat Together:** Sit down and eat meals as a family. Children are more likely to try new foods if they see their parents and siblings eating them.
- **Healthy Choices:** Show your child that you enjoy eating a variety of healthy foods.

### 4. Make Meals Fun
- **Presentation:** Arrange food in fun and appealing ways, like cutting fruits and vegetables into shapes.
- **Involvement:** Involve your child in meal preparation. They may be more willing to eat something they helped make.

### 5. Avoid Pressure
- **No Force-Feeding:** Avoid forcing your child to eat. This can create a negative association with mealtime.
- **Stay Calm:** If your child refuses a meal, stay calm and simply offer the next meal or snack at the usual time.

### 6. Offer Healthy Snacks
- **Nutritious Options:** Provide healthy snacks like yogurt, cheese, fruits, vegetables, whole-grain crackers, and nut butters.
- **Limit Sugary Foods:** Minimize sugary snacks and drinks, which can reduce appetite for nutritious foods.

### 7. Limit Distractions
- **Focus on Eating:** Turn off the TV and other distractions during meals to help your child focus on eating.

### 8. Consistency and Patience
- **Consistency:** Be consistent with mealtime routines and expectations.
- **Patience:** Understand that it may take multiple exposures to a new food before your child accepts it. Keep offering new foods without pressure.

### When to Seek Professional Help
If your child consistently refuses to eat or if you're concerned about their growth and nutrition, it may be helpful to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric dietitian. They can provide guidance tailored to your child's specific needs and assess if there are any underlying issues affecting their appetite or eating habits.

### Additional Tips
- **Hydration:** Ensure your child is drinking enough water throughout the day.
- **Balanced Meals:** Aim to include at least one food from each food group in every meal.
- **Positive Reinforcement:** Praise your child for trying new foods or eating well, but avoid using food as a reward or punishment.

With time and persistence, most toddlers will gradually expand their food preferences and develop healthier eating habits.