When Kids Refuse to Eat: Understanding and Addressing Picky Eaters

It's a common concern for parents: your child suddenly stops eating or shows a disinterest in meals. This behavior, often referred to as "picky eating" or "food refusal," can be frustrating and worrisome. While it's normal for children to go through phases of food preferences, understanding the underlying reasons behind such behavior is crucial.

Understanding the Roots of Picky Eating

One common cause of picky eating is simply the type of food offered. The child may find the taste unappealing or dislike the texture. However, illness can also play a significant role, according to Dr. Kristian Wongso G., a specialist in Pediatrics.

"It's essential to determine why your child is refusing to eat," explains Dr. Wongso. "Is there a possible illness, like a lung infection? They might have a sore throat or feel nauseous. This can make them hesitant to eat, even their favorite foods." He further emphasizes that adults experience similar discomfort when sick. "When we're unwell, even the thought of eating can be unpleasant, and we might get frustrated if someone tries to force us to eat. For children, this can even create a traumatic experience."

Seeking Professional Guidance

To understand the root cause of your child's food refusal, consulting a doctor is essential. It's crucial to bring your child's health record (KIA) to the appointment. This document tracks your child's growth and development, helping the doctor identify any potential underlying issues.

"I've encountered parents who claim their child has been a picky eater for three months," Dr. Wongso shares. "But when I look at their KIA, I see their growth chart is perfectly fine. It turns out their child's body doesn't need as much food as their parents believe."

Avoiding Quick Fixes: The Importance of Balanced Nutrition

While dealing with a picky eater can be challenging for parents, it's crucial to avoid quick fixes like replacing meals with milk.

"Never do this," emphasizes Dr. Wongso. "Milk is not a substitute for food." Although milk used to be considered an essential part of a balanced diet, the traditional "4 Sehat 5 Sempurna" (Four Healthy Five Perfect) concept has evolved. The current recommendation is the "Pedoman Gizi Seimbang" (Balanced Nutrition Guide), which emphasizes a well-rounded diet with a variety of food groups. Milk is now categorized as a protein source, similar to meat and beans, and can be replaced by other foods with comparable nutritional value.

"It's important to understand that milk isn't essential as long as your child is receiving balanced nutrition. And that balanced nutrition is the key," Dr. Wongso clarifies.

The best approach to address picky eating is to understand the underlying cause. Consult your doctor, follow their advice, and trust that your child will eventually get back to enjoying their meals.