to the Dietitian with a Difference Blog

We get it; feeding a fussy or picky eater can sometimes feel frustrating and you worry if they are getting enough protein. So, let me share a little secret with you: I've been there too. My little girl was a fussy eater, especially when it came to meat. But you know meat is not the only source of protein. And so many children struggle with the texture of meat. In this blog, we'll dive into the world of high protein foods for picky eaters. And trust me, it's not all just chicken nuggets. We're...

This blog is your go-to guide for practical tips and recipes for constipation in toddlers. If you are dealing with constipation in your toddler, you're not alone. As a parent who's been through it, I understand the stress and challenges – especially if you have a picky eater. My little girl had awful constipation around the age of two years old. From understanding why constipation happens to learning the power of a balanced diet and hydration. And believe me, I've walked in your shoes, coaxing...

Are mealtimes with your little one turning into a daily battleground? Are you desperately trying to find ways to convince your child to try even the tiniest bite of a new vegetable? If you find yourself nodding in agreement, you're not alone. As parents, we've all faced the struggles of dealing with picky eaters who seem to have an unwavering loyalty to their preferred foods. The good news? There's a solution that might just revolutionize your approach to mealtime battles: food chaining....

Snacks for Road Trips for Kids As the summer holiday’s approach. Long car journeys with kids and constant demand for snacks on road trips will arise. Plus, the unusual conversation of how long until we get there! I'll share a little anecdote from my recent trip to France, where I made a rookie mistake and let my 7-year-old pack the snacks. Excited to take on the responsibility, she filled our snack bag with an array of sugary treats, thinking it was a delicious idea. However, we soon realized...

Picky eating and Autism Picky eating and other eating challenges are very common in early childhood, with a 25-35% prevalence in neurotypical children. However, for children on autism spectrum disorder, eating challenges are even more common, with some research suggesting around 70% of autistic children are selective eaters (picky eaters) (1) . Reduced intakes of fruits, vegetables, and dairy have been recorded in autistic children with eating difficulties such as picky eating. This may...

You may have heard of the omega 3, 6 and 9 fats. There is a lot of confusion when it comes to the different types of fats. This blog takes a look at the different kinds of fat (‘healthy’ and ‘unhealthy’). Where the omega 3, 6 and 9 fats fit in and how to make sure your child is getting the right type for optimal nutrition.  A background on the different types of fats in the diet There are 4 main types of fat in the diet and the foods they are commonly found in:  Monounsaturated fats...