Learn how to deal with children who have difficulty eating

It is not uncommon to find children who refuse to try and consume fruits and vegetables, as well as parents who report difficulties in getting their young children to eat properly. “First of all, it is important to remember that the child goes through several stages during development, and the desire to eat varies according to these stages”, explains pediatrician Dr. Artal Nile. An important tip is to pay attention to the family’s eating habits, because if the parents don’t eat well, it will be more difficult to get the little one to eat properly.

Important nutrients for the child

It is important to pay attention to the composition of the children’s dish. “All food groups are essential in food of children, with emphasis on the consumption of milk, because of the important supply of calcium”, guarantees nutritionist Laura Ramos Toledo. In addition, fruits, vegetables and greens are essential for the supply of vitamins and mineral salts, and meats are indicated when it comes to the adequate supply of proteins and iron.

“Children from six months old can start gradually introducing foods, eating fruits, vegetables, meat and yolk, leaving egg whites and seafood for when they are one year old – at this stage, they should already be consuming the same foods. than the family,” he explains.

The Doctor. Nilo Artal adds that food for this age group should consist of small, frequent meals. It also needs to cover all energy and builder macronutrients, as well as being rich in essential nutrients like iron, calcium and vitamins A, C, D.

Distractions during meals

Many parents end up resorting to television to distract their little ones and convince them to eat. Nutritionist Laura Ramos Toledo emphasizes that no form of distraction should be used during meals, as children should learn, from an early age, healthier eating habits.

“Children should have their meals in calm environments, away from television and other distractions so that the act of eating is conscious and, with that, they learn to discipline their appetite, the amount ingested and other social aspects involved in eating in complete family.

do not offer rewards

Offer rewards for the child to eat, such as sweets and toys, is also not recommended by experts. “The child who refuses to eat should never be encouraged by these methods, but to eat based on the real need to eat well”, emphasizes Laura Ramos.

Teach your child good habits

A good tip to attract the little ones and make eating easier is to let them participate from the moment of purchase to the preparation of the foods. “It is an opportunity for parents to help in the nutritional education process, which is an important tool for building healthy eating habits. Each step must be followed by guidelines and examples, according to the child’s age, so that they can take this as a routine for their diet”, advises Laura Ramos Toledo.

In general, it is important for children to participate in meals like adults, so that they develop good eating habits. “Children’s learning is based on observing the behavior of adults; therefore, they must eat and enjoy vegetables. Sometimes, a re-education of eating habits in the family is necessary”, concludes Dr. Artal Nile.