Ep 6 Picky Eating What's normal, what's not normal, how to prevent it, how to fix it

Is your child a picky eater… or is it something more serious? In this episode of The Pediatric Dietitian Podcast, pediatric dietitians Jen & Danielle break down everything parents need to know about picky eating—what’s normal, what’s not, and when it’s time to seek help. We’re talking real-life strategies (not generic advice) to help you prevent, manage, and even reverse picky eating—without turning mealtimes into a battle. You’ll learn: What normal* picky eating looks like (and why it happens) Red flags that signal a more serious feeding issue When to involve a pediatrician, dietitian, or feeding therapist How to handle food refusal without power struggles Why forcing bites can backfire (even if it “works” short-term) Simple ways to increase food exposure (without pressure) The role of snacks, ultra-processed foods, and family habits Real patient stories—from mild picky eating to severe cases We also share *practical tools you can start using today**, like: ✔️ Balanced meal structure (even when they don’t eat everything) ✔️ How to introduce new foods without resistance ✔️ Why consistency matters more than perfection ✔️ What to do when your child only eats a handful of foods Whether your toddler is throwing broccoli on the floor or your older child refuses entire food groups—this episode will help you feel more confident and less overwhelmed. --- Have a question about your child’s eating? DM us on Instagram: @thepediatricdietitian 🎧 Subscribe for more evidence-based, real-life nutrition guidance for kids #pickyeater #toddlernutrition #kidsnutrition #parentingtips #feedingkids #pediatricdietitian