Achieving Better Health Together
Picky eating is remarkably common during childhood, affecting between 8% to 50% of children. While many children naturally outgrow these eating patterns—approximately 58% within two years—some develop more persistent challenges that require nutritional support.
As a Certified Nutritionist (AHSU/NINE) specializing in eating challenges, I help families understand when picky eating is a normal developmental phase and when it may benefit from professional guidance.
Picky eating occurs when a toddler, child, or adult limits their food variety and amount, often establishing rigid eating patterns.
Common Characteristics:
Nutritional Impact: The longer picky eating persists, the higher the risk of developing nutritional imbalances. Research shows that childhood picky eaters typically weigh less than their peers due to reduced caloric intake and may face increased behavioral challenges.
In some cases, picky eating progresses to a more severe condition called Selective Eating Disorder (SED), now clinically known as Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) in the DSM-5.
Key Difference: While picky eaters refuse foods by preference, individuals with Selective Eating Disorder experience genuine fear or anxiety around eating. For them, trying new foods isn’t a choice—it feels unsafe and can trigger significant distress.
When Professional Support May Be Needed:
Whether dealing with persistent picky eating or more severe selective eating, early nutritional intervention provides the best outcomes. Watch for these physical and behavioral symptoms:
Physical Signs:
Behavioral Indicators:
Data from the CDC (February 2023) analyzing 18,386 children aged 1-5 revealed concerning nutritional trends:
Research Insight: Studies show that children who are picky eaters between ages 4-9 tend to maintain these patterns over time. Introducing varied, healthy foods early while limiting processed foods and sugary drinks can help prevent these tendencies from becoming entrenched.
Don’t wait. If your child shows persistent picky eating or emotional difficulty around food, seek nutritional support early. The earlier intervention begins, the better the outcome for long-term health and eating habits.
Addressing eating challenges often benefits from a team approach:
As a Certified Nutritionist (AHSU/NINE), I’ve developed a comprehensive dietary program to support individuals struggling with picky eating, apprehensive eating, and selective eating challenges.
Who This Program Serves:
Flexible Support Options:
The program works as a self-guided resource or can be combined with personalized consultation sessions tailored to your family’s unique needs.
Contact for Personalized Support:
This comprehensive program provides practical nutritional guidance and strategies:
Core Program Elements:
Safe Food Framework
Nutritional Education & Strategy
Practical Implementation Tools
Digital program for immediate access and self-paced implementation.
Shipping included
Interactive Features:
Perfect For:
Empowerment Through Choice:
Both formats emphasize giving individuals control and choices in their food selection. This autonomy builds confidence and supports developing a healthier, less stressful relationship with eating.
Children and Adults with:
Higher Risk Groups:
Research indicates eating challenges are more common in individuals with:
If you or your child struggles with picky eating or selective eating patterns, professional nutritional support can make a meaningful difference. The Picky Eaters Palette Program provides structured, compassionate guidance for expanding food variety and improving nutritional balance.
Ready to explore how nutritional support can help?
Contact Better With Nutrition:
Virtual consultations available throughout Wisconsin and select states where nutrition practice is permitted by law.
Professional Scope: The nutritional guidance and programs provided by Better With Nutrition are educational and consultative in nature. I do not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent medical conditions, including eating disorders. I provide nutrition education and work collaboratively with your healthcare team, including mental health professionals when appropriate, to support comprehensive care.