Child nutrition: how to tell if fussy food eating stems from more than just a stubborn stomach...

Although food neophobia (an irrational fear or dislike of new and unfamiliar foods) is considered to be a 'normal' part of child development, many parents are mistaking their minor's natural physical and physiological reactions to food, for fussy eating.

 In order to highlight how food refusal can stem from more than just a stubborn stomach, we're sharing our top three reasons why tots' may be reluctant to tuck into new and familiar foods...

 1. Increased fibre and fluid intake.
Although an adequate fibre and fluid intake may play a predominant part in a healthy diet and digestion, minors' are more likely to shun snacks and meals if their tiny tummies are full with fibre-rich foods and/or fluid - this can result in food refusal (as well as the reluctance to try new tastes and textures) simply because their stomach is already satisfied, particularly as fibre is a satiety stimulating nutrient that promotes a feeling of fullness.

 2. A negative eating environment.
Aside from detrimental distractions such as technology and television - little'uns are less likely to eat new and familiar foods (and sense their satiety signals!) when they're engrossed in their favourite TV programme - an eating environment that's stressful e.g.one that stems from parental pressure to try new tastes and textures, can drive tots' to develop a dislike for mealtimes that manifests as (and parents mistake for) fussy eating.

 3. Inadequate consistency and creativity.
As tempting as it may be to throw in the towel when a tantrum is triggered, fun and familiarity are key to food acceptance - this means that in order for tots' to try a new and unfamiliar food, it must first become familiar (through repeated exposure) and look visually appealing (think a captivating and colourful creation that appeals to children such as a fun food face, or creative character).

 Final thought: although fussy food eating is often a temporary phase that tots' go through, it can also be initiated and influenced by factors such as previous snacks and meals, parental actions and attitude (towards food) and child targeted advertising and advertisements - all of which should be considered when faced with fussy eating.

 www.twitter.com/N_NutritionUK

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