Is Your Child’s Picky Eating Affecting Their Growth? Important Things Parents Should Watch For

As parents in Singapore, we often navigate the world of our children’s food preferences. It’s common to have a little one who seems to live on just a few favourite foods. Picky eating is a well-known phase, especially during the preschool years. However, if this continues as they grow older, it’s natural for us to wonder – is my child getting enough nutrients? Could their selective eating habits be impacting their growth and development, potentially leading to them being underweight or even facing hidden nutritional deficiencies?  

Understanding Picky Eating in Our Children

Picky eating often peaks between ages 2 and 6, a time when our children are becoming more independent, and this includes making choices about what they eat. While many children outgrow this phase, some remain selective, which can make us concerned about their nutritional intake ^1,2 .

When Should Parents Be Concerned?

Most picky eaters still manage to get enough nutrients to grow and develop healthily, even with a limited diet. However, it’s important for us to be aware of certain signs that might indicate a problem ^2,3,4:

• Underweight or Short Stature: Is your child consistently smaller or shorter than other children their age, falling below the usual growth charts?
• Cognitive and Emotional Changes: Are you noticing difficulties with concentration, a dip in school performance, or frequent mood swings?
• Low Energy Levels: Does your child often seem tired or less active than usual?
• Food Group Avoidance: Do they regularly refuse entire categories of food, like vegetables or proteins (fish, chicken, tofu, eggs)?
• Meal Refusal: Do they show little interest in eating or frequently skip meals?

If you observe these signs, it’s a good idea to take a closer look at your child’s diet and consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional.

What Can Lead to Nutritional Risks in Picky Eaters?

Several factors can increase the risk of a child becoming underweight or malnourished ^1,4,5:

• Protein Deficiency: If your child avoids protein-rich foods like meat, fish, eggs, dairy, or legumes (like lentils and beans often used in local dishes), they might not be getting enough protein. Protein is crucial for cell repair, tissue growth, a strong immune system, and overall health, making it vital for a healthy child’s development.
• Limited Food Variety: When children avoid entire food groups, they can miss out on essential vitamins and minerals, increasing their risk of deficiencies. 
• Nutritional Imbalance: A diet that mainly consists of sugary foods and refined carbohydrates, with very little fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, can lead to an imbalance in the nutrients they are getting.
• Reduced Appetite: Some picky eaters might simply have a smaller appetite, making it hard for them to eat enough calories and nutrients throughout the day.  

Tips for Parents to Encourage a Healthy Diet

Helping a picky eater achieve a balanced diet doesn’t have to be a battle. Consider these strategies ^2,3,5:

• Offer a Variety of Foods: Keep offering new foods alongside their familiar favorites. Even a small taste can help them become more open to new flavors and textures. Think about introducing local fruits and vegetables in creative ways.
• Create Positive Mealtime Experiences: Make mealtimes enjoyable and relaxed. Involve your child in preparing meals or make eating more fun with colorful presentations.
• Focus on Nutrient-Rich Foods: Try adding pureed vegetables into sauces, smoothies (a great way to incorporate fruits too!), or even baked goods. Fortified foods or age-appropriate supplements might also help bridge nutritional gaps.  
• Consider Nutritional Supplements: For children with very restricted diets, a protein supplement for children or other nutritional supplements might be beneficial. However, it’s crucial to always consult a doctor or dietitian to choose the right options tailored to your child’s specific needs and ensure it supports their growth and development appropriately.

When to Seek Professional Advice

If you are worried that your child’s eating habits are putting them at risk of being underweight or malnourished, it’s important to consult a pediatrician or a registered dietitian. They can assess your child’s growth patterns and provide personalized advice to address their specific nutritional needs. They can also advise on whether a protein supplement for children or other supplements might be appropriate.

Remember, every child is unique. With patience, understanding, and the right strategies, you can help your child develop healthy eating habits that support their child’s growth and long-term well-being in Singapore.

Reference

1. Gahagan, S. “Malnutrition.” Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, edited by Robert M. Kliegman, et al., 21st ed., Elsevier, 2020, pp. 396-407