Most selective eaters, regardless of their seemingly limited diets, are getting the nutrients their body needs. However, there are some key nutrients that parents will want to be mindful of when evaluating their child's diet.
Vitamin D & Calcium:
Essential for strong bones and teeth. Dairy products or milk substitutes are the primary source for most children. If a child doesn't consume dairy, it's important to ensure they are getting calcium from other food sources. Although provides some vitamin D (it's fortified), it is generally recommended to add a supplement as it's very difficult to meet the daily requirement (600 IU) through diet alone.
B Vitamins & Iron:
Critical for muscle growth, intellectual development, and metabolism. A diet with limited fish or meat consumption can lack these nutrients. Iron is essential in the toddler years for brain development, though diets are often lacking iron due to picky eating or high iron foods not being offered. While plant foods like dark green vegetables contain iron, animal sources like beef are more easily absorbed. Pairing non-animal sources with high vitamin C foods will enhance absorption. Fortified cereals provide these nutrients and are great when other food sources are not consumed.
Vitamins A & C:
Necessary for a healthy immune system, vision and skin. Citrus fruits, green, yellow and orange vegetables are great sources. These nutrients can be of concern in children who eat little to no fruits or vegetables.
Omega-3 Fats (DHA & EPA):
Critical for brain development, these fats are most prevalent in fatty fish, grass fed meat and eggs. Some studies have shown improved cognition and behavior with adequate omega-3s especially in ADHD. Adding flax, chia and walnuts are great ways to sneak omegas into any food, however, animal sources like fatty fish are more beneficial. Supplementation is often recommended for children who do not consume fatty fish like salmon regularly.
What about meal replacement supplements?
Supplements like Pediasure or Carnation may be helpful in children that are underweight or follow a highly selective diet, but use should be limited to medical necessity. They are high in sugar and very filling which can limit a picky eater's desire to consume whole foods.
So what's the bottom line?
It really depends. In those with highly selective or limited diets, parents should work with a dietitian or other medical professional to address nutrient gaps and determine if there is a need for supplementation.
If you question whether your child's diet is adequately meeting their nutrition needs we encourage you to set an appointment with one of our dietitians. We offer complimentary discovery calls to determine whether we're a good fit and help you to understand insurance benefits you may be entitled to.
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