Sometimes picky eating, coupled with gastro-intestinal issues in children can indicate something more serious going on such as food allergies, or celiac disease (severe allergy to wheat).
So, I suggest you start by seeing a gastro-intestinal specialist. If he does not have any food allergies, or any other serious intestinal problems, then helping him eat healthier can be simple.
You can start by giving him only healthy eating options. Only keep healthy foods in the house. If he knows there is an unhealthy option, he will hold out for it as long as its available.
Fruit is always a good start to healthy eating with kids because its sweet. Try snacks such as: sliced apple with honey, slices banana sprinkled with cinnamon, or raspberries and strawberries in plain yogurt.
Try not to give incentives such as "if you eat this, you can have this." This will only encourage your child to believe that the unhealthy food is the prize. You want to change that thinking by making healthy food the goal and only option. Keep in mind that healthy eating can be tasty and just as rewarding.
I hope these tips are helpful. Let us know if you have any more questions.
Faith
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Hello and welcome to EmpowHer,
Sometimes picky eating, coupled with gastro-intestinal issues in children can indicate something more serious going on such as food allergies, or celiac disease (severe allergy to wheat).
May 1, 2016 - 11:09amSo, I suggest you start by seeing a gastro-intestinal specialist. If he does not have any food allergies, or any other serious intestinal problems, then helping him eat healthier can be simple.
You can start by giving him only healthy eating options. Only keep healthy foods in the house. If he knows there is an unhealthy option, he will hold out for it as long as its available.
Fruit is always a good start to healthy eating with kids because its sweet. Try snacks such as: sliced apple with honey, slices banana sprinkled with cinnamon, or raspberries and strawberries in plain yogurt.
Try not to give incentives such as "if you eat this, you can have this." This will only encourage your child to believe that the unhealthy food is the prize. You want to change that thinking by making healthy food the goal and only option. Keep in mind that healthy eating can be tasty and just as rewarding.
I hope these tips are helpful. Let us know if you have any more questions.
Faith
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