January 26, 2009

Health Tip: Problems With a Picky Eater?

(HealthDay News) -- If your child is a picky eater and refuses to eat or try new foods, the University of Maryland Medical Center offers these suggestions:

• Set an example by eating various healthy foods yourself.
• Fix foods that are attractive. Decorate your child's plate with bright, colorful foods with different consistencies.
• If your child isn't hungry, don't force the issue. When children are hungry enough, they will eat.
• Stay away from sugary treats. Instead, offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Make healthy eating a tradition. Start early by offering a variety of baby foods when the child is as young as 6 months.

-- Diana Kohnle

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