Question: My 9 year old son is a very picky eater. He hates most vegetables and only likes a few fruits and drinks a lot of juice. Should I be concerned?
DR.PAUL: Picky eaters are very common, most grow well because on average as they consume enough to catch up or average-out their intake. Make eating fun, not a battle, and be creative with ways you prepare vegetables. Get him involved in the preparation and even buying groceries. In terms of juice, drinking too much, especially before meals, will cut down the appetite so there should be some limit to liquid intake, especially before meals. A few glasses per day however, of fresh juice is quite healthy, as long as it does not cut down on his appetite.
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Pediatrician DR.PAUL Roumeliotis is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. The information provided above is designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace the advice and care of your child’s physician, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect that your child has a medical condition always consult a physician.