ASK LORI - 'How to get my 5-year-old to eat healthier'

Dear Lori,

I have eaten relatively poorly for many years now, and I am just now trying to incorporate a healthier way of eating into my life and into my family’s.

My husband is open to it…to a degree, but my 5-year-old is resisting completely. He refuses to eat anything healthy. I really mean anything … no vegetables, no fruits (except a banana here and there), no meat, etc.

What can I do to get him to try some of these things?

Signed,

Desperate and defeated!

Dear Desperate and defeated,

Oh no you don’t! You aren’t going to let a child barely out of toddlerhood defeat you, are you? Especially when you are doing something for his own good. The cellular growth and development that is still occurring is why it is so important for you to teach him about good nutrition now. These are the years that the foundation of health is built One expert wrote that the diet of a 5-year-old is more indicative of a 50 year old’s health than the diet he consumes at 50.

Having said that, don’t feel bad about your near defeat, because I get a similar version of this question  ALL OF THE TIME. 

This is what I have to say:

1. Only buy healthy foods or foods you approve of.
2. Model healthy eating behavior.
3. Keep healthy snacks accessible.
4. Teach your child about nutrition and gently explain the reasons for a healthy diet.
5. Be patient and don’t get stressed.

It would be very unnatural for a child to starve their self. Will he get hungry? …probably. Most stubborn eaters resist heavily at first … no biggy … let him. He’ll eventually begin to try new foods and his taste buds will begin to accept new tastes. 

Best of luck and health,

Lori