For many parents, mealtimes can be a battleground. A plate of vegetables or anything outside a child's “selected” food list is outright rejected.

While picky eating is often dismissed as a phase, long-term poor nutrition can lead to serious, long-term health consequences.

One of the most concerning cases was reported in Malaysia of an eight-year-old boy going permanently blind as a result of eating nothing but chicken nuggets, sausages and cookies since he was an infant.

While at school in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur he shouted: “Teacher, why can't I see anything?”

He was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with severe vitamin A deficiency, which is a key component in rhodopsin, a light-sensitive protein that helps produce pigments in the retina, which help with vision in low light areas

In another case, reported in the UK, where a teenager who ate only chips, white bread, and processed ham developed severe malnutrition lost his vision by the age of 17 due to a lack of vitamin B12 and other essential nutrients.

Children require a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, protein, and healthy fats to support their rapid growth and brain development.

When children's diet is restricted deficiencies can quickly arise.

Iron deficiency is another common concern among picky eaters, often leading to anaemia, fatigue, and impaired cognitive function.

Calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, frequently seen in children who refuse dairy or fortified alternatives, can cause weakened bones, increasing the risk of fractures later in life.

The impact on mental and physical health

Beyond physical health, poor nutrition can affect a child’s mood, behaviour, and academic performance.

Children whose diets lack omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and nuts, are at higher risk of anxiety and attention difficulties. Additionally, children consuming high-sugar, highly processed diets are more prone to obesity and metabolic disorders, which can lead to diabetes and heart disease in adulthood.

How to encourage healthy eating habits

While parents may feel frustrated and helpless when dealing with a fussy eater, there are ways to encourage a more balanced diet:

Lead by example - children are more likely to eat healthily if they see their parents doing the same.
Make small changes - gradually introduce new foods alongside familiar favourites.
Get creative - present food in fun, visually appealing ways or involve children in meal preparation.
Seek professional advice - If picky eating is severely affecting a child's health, consulting a paediatric dietitian can provide tailored solutions to address the issue early for parents to ensure their children receive the nutrients they need..

IOL Lifestyle

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