I’m a paediatrician – these are the 6 things you can do to help your children have a healthy relationship with food

Nancy Bostock’s Advice for Developing Healthy Eating Habits in Children

Nancy Bostock, a paediatrician at Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, shares her insights and recommendations on fostering a positive relationship with food in children. Drawing from her extensive experience in children’s physical and mental health, Bostock emphasizes the importance of mindful eating practices and supportive parenting approaches.

1. Recognize the Social and Emotional Aspects of Food

Bostock highlights the emotional impact of food on parents and children, urging families to focus on the joy of shared meals rather than anxiety around eating habits. By creating a relaxed and enjoyable mealtime environment, parents can help children develop a healthy relationship with food.

2. Encourage Self-Regulation

Avoiding coercive tactics like linking dessert to finishing meals, Bostock advocates for letting children listen to their bodies and eat according to hunger cues. By promoting the concept of food as nourishment and energy, parents can empower children to make mindful choices about eating.

3. Avoid Unnecessary Dietary Restrictions

Cautioning against imposing unscientific dietary limitations, Bostock emphasizes the importance of offering a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Restricting food groups without medical justification can lead to nutritional deficiencies and negative psychological effects on children.

4. Discourage Emotional Eating

By not using food as a reward or punishment, parents can prevent children from associating eating with emotional manipulation. Bostock advises against giving in to food-related tantrums and instead encourages a positive and neutral approach to mealtimes.

5. Address Picky Eating as a Developmental Phase

Recognizing picky eating as a common stage in children’s growth, Bostock suggests offering a variety of foods without pressure. By exposing children to new foods and allowing repeated exposure, parents can expand their child’s palate gradually.

6. Model Positive Behavior Around Food

Highlighting the influence of parental attitudes on children’s perceptions, Bostock emphasizes the importance of modeling healthy eating habits and body positivity. By demonstrating a healthy relationship with food, parents can instill lifelong wellness practices in their children.

For parents facing severe dietary concerns or growth issues in children, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.

Article adapted from insights shared by Nancy Bostock with New Scientist