A TikTok doctor has shared a potentially ‘game-changing’ tip for parents struggling with fussy eaters. Dr Mel, from the @drsmandm account, empathised with the challenges parents face in getting children to eat a variety of foods. She highlighted the impact of marketing ultra-processed foods, which can make healthier options less appealing to kids. According to Dr Mel, these products are often designed to be addictive, leading children to reject other options.
Dr Mel recently attended a course where she learned a new strategy to tackle this issue. She suggested encouraging children to explore new foods to make them more appealing. In a personal example, she wanted her son to eat peppers and gave him the opportunity to play with them before deciding to eat them. Her son spent time cutting the peppers and eventually asked to cook them, leading to a more positive association with the vegetable.
The video, which has received hundreds of likes, resonated with parents who shared their own tactics for broadening their children’s food preferences. Some suggested hiding vegetables in sauces or involving children in meal preparation. Each parent seemed to have a unique approach tailored to their child’s preferences.
The advice comes at a time when many parents are navigating the challenges of ensuring their children have a balanced diet. With fussy eating being a common issue among youngsters, Dr Mel’s simple yet effective method offers hope for parents struggling with mealtime battles. By encouraging children to explore and engage with different foods, parents may find a way to overcome fussy eating habits and foster a healthier relationship with food for their children.