What Causes Children to Not Want to Eat Certain Foods?

Medical History

• When children show indications of food aversions, or ̶0;selective̶1; eating, it̵7;s common for them to have medical issues or problems that could affect eating, according to the Davidson Institute for Talent Development. Possible contributors include reflux, digestive difficulties, constipation, sensory food issues and autism. Some medications also create a tendency for food aversions.

New Foods

• Youngsters often dislike the idea of trying new and unfamiliar foods, advises MedlinePlus. Nervousness about new foods can be especially prevalent with young children who have not experienced much exposure to a wide variety of food. If a child feels reluctant about trying a new food, avoid forcing him to eat it. With practice and positive experiences, a little one should develop more willingness to try new foods. If trying new foods has been negative for a child, it̵7;s possible the youngster may have more reluctance about unfamiliar foods.

Sensory Food Aversion

• If a child has a sensory food aversion, she may refuse various foods due to textures, smells, tastes and appearance, according to the National Association for Gifted Children website. In this situation, a youngster might gag, spit, make faces or even vomit when forced to eat specific foods. Kids may even become agitated if objectionable foods come into contact with other foods on a dinner plate.

Overcoming Issues

• Encourage healthy eating by relaxing about your child̵7;s manners and eating progress, suggests Megan-Lynette Richmond, writing for Super Duper Handy Handouts. If you perceive unusual or concerning food issues with your child, seek an assessment from professionals to determine if your child needs help with food issues and aversions. Treatment might involve both behavioral and developmental psychology, and consultations with a dietician, language pathologist and an occupational therapist. Left untreated, food aversions can affect a child̵7;s development, growth, behavior and even cognitive development. If food aversions become an ingrained habit, it may be more difficult to overcome for your child.