my son is 7 years old an is a very picky eater, he eats things

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my son is 7 years old an is a very picky eater, he eats things like ramen noodles,french fries,pizza, chicken nuggets, he says it taste funny or gags if it feels funny in his mouth.
I want to know what I can do to improve his eating.

neenie

Optional Information:
Male , Age: 7

Already Tried:
We try to let him try foods but he gags

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $8

Here's something that worked for my nephew.

When his parents had different foods, they didn't offer him any of it, but commented to each other how good it tastes. They didn't reinforce his behavior of refusing it because they didn't offer it to him. After a week or so, he started asking about different foods, and his parents said he probably wouldn't like them, and went on with their eating and commenting on the foods. Before long, he was trying new foods and liking them.

Kerry

Kerry, RN
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Reply to Kerry's Post: We have tried this. I still would like more ideas.thanks
Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Edited by Customer (name blocked for privacy) on August 16 2006 at 11:48 AM

The foods you have listed above are all of different texture in themselves. I would if you haven't yet, is make sure there is not a physical cause. If had ever eaten things other than this, it may be that he has reflux or stomach problems, that the only things that work for him are the foods you have listed, and to your son these are "safe" foods that don't trigger any problems. So I would have him see his doctor to rule out any possible physical reason for this eating behavior.

Do keep in mind though, this eating behavior is considered normal, however he is starting to get to the age this picky eating should be out grown.

If he continues to eat this way, it doesn't hold any nutrient, I would give him some boost or ensure once a day if you can. As this will at least help give him nutrient for that his body needs.

Here is an excellent site that you may want to read over as well, which talks about picky eaters with great tips as well.

read here

Hope this helps, If you need anything else please feel free to ask. If you found this helpful don’t forget to click the *ACCEPT* button and leave *POSITIVE* feedback.

1 Other Expert Agrees with this!

Reply to Lindie's Post: If the food feels funny on his tongue he dosen't
want it. he eats other foods like pasta , dosen't like certain sauces if veggie pieces are in it.
but he want eat rice because of the way it feels
he eats peanut butter and jelly. he seems bothered
by texures. he only tried chicken nuggets because
his pre-k class went to mcdonalds. I'm worried he may get too much carbs. he also want eat vitamins
neeniedc

you are saying he won't eat vitamins? You state you are worried it's too much carbs, he may not be as healthy as he should be due to his eating. But substituting things until you find things etc., may be the only way to go for now. But I would still rule out any physical reason as well. Making sure his throat is fine for swallowing foods, that his taste buds are not swollen, no infections...things like that. Example: if he likes ice cream or shakes, make one with some the ensure, as this will at least give him his daily nutrient as well to grow. Do follow some of the tips on that site I had sent you.

Plus as the site stated as well:

Once the medical/dietary assessment has been completed, the doctor can determine whether or not your child has a serious feeding problem.

Fortunately, the majority of picky eaters grow normally and without nutritional deficiencies or imbalances. In these cases, the approach focuses on an individualized combination of practical measures and behavioral techniques.

Hope this helps Hun.

Plus there is gum that has vitamins in them, gummy candy with vitamins, plus your boost or ensure in a variety of flavors as well.

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my son is 7 years old an is a very picky eater, he

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