Super Healthy Kids, a blog and online resource for parents of picky eaters as well as those of us just wanting to raise kids with healthy eating habits; recently teamed up with Maryann Jacobson for a giveaway of her book, ‘Fearless Feeding’. Maryann is a Registered Dietitian and author of a like blog called Raise Healthy Eaters. 
Aside from the great book giveaway, Maryann has offered 5 things parents can take off their “worry list” along with red flags that indicate that there might actually be a problem with regards to their children’s nutrition.
1) My Kid is a Picky Eater! Becoming more selective with food choices is actually a normal part of a child’s development, peaking between the ages to 2 and 6. Growth slows at this time, decreasing appetites of little ones. There is no need to worry if growth is fine and a child eats from most food groups. It is also normal for young children to skip a meal here and there, as eating is erratic during this stage.
When to worry: Signs that your child is a problem feeder are eating less than 20 foods, frequent gagging, poor growth and tantrums around new food. Consult your pediatrician if this happens.
2) Obesity Runs in My Family: The childhood obesity epidemic has many parents fearful when obesity runs in their family. Although there is a genetic component to excess weight, genes have not changed much since obesity has become an issue. That means that while some people are more susceptible to weight issues, what and how children are fed, regular physical activity and good sleep are the most important factors.
When to worry: A child who sneaks food, binge eats or has accelerated growth (i.e., jumping 2 percentile lines on the growth chart), may be problematic. If these problems occur see a pediatric dietitian that addresses both what and how children are fed.
3) My Child Doesn’t Eat Vegetables: Studies show that about 70% of young children are more apt to taste bitter compounds in veggies, which is why vegetables are often shunned. The good news is that children don’t have to eat lots of vegetables to meet their nutritional needs. A varied fruit intake can make up for a low veggie intake until little one’s taste buds come around (keep offering!).
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