American Kids Used to Eat Everything
Children in the 19th century happily consumed wild plants and organ meats. What happened?
TL;DR
- The author's nearly 2-year-old son has become a very picky eater, mainly consuming pasta.
- Various common strategies like hiding vegetables or offering safe foods alongside new ones have been ineffective.
- Expert Veit suggests limiting snacks and milk to induce hunger, persistently encouraging trying rejected foods, and not offering alternatives.
- Expert Zucker agrees with set snack times but cautions against forcing or surprising children with food, as it can cause anxiety and rigidity.
- Zucker recommends restoring positive food associations through fun grocery shopping and cooking, and reducing mealtime 'sports commentary' from parents.
- The author has seen some positive results with Veit's strategies, such as the child eating more varied foods when hungry.
- Despite some success, the parent still offers preferred foods when the child rejects an entire meal.