Picky eating is one of the most common challenges we have as parents. We all want our kids to eat healthy and we know it’s important for their growth, development, and overall health. But we often find ourselves encouraging them to “just take a bite!,” eat the meal we took the time to make, or try new foods. And when they flat-out refuse, it can be super frustrating.

In this episode, I sat down with Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and Intuitive Eating Counselor.

Crystal and I talk about the common myths around feeding kids, the problem with “kid food Instagram,” and why there’s a lot more to feeding kids than the food we put on their plates. Crystal also shares ways that we can change our mindset at mealtimes, how to talk about food with our kids, and how to raise healthy eaters without it feeling like one more to-do on your list.

Welcome

3:34 Let’s talk about your story!

5:15 Have you always been passionate about healthy eating and food?

7:54 Why are most kids picky eaters?

12:17 What are common feeding mistakes parents make?

14:54 What are common feeding myths?

21:15 Can eating a lot of fake food alter a child’s palate for fresh, whole foods?

23:09 What are the ways we can encourage our kids to eat more vegetables and eat healthier overall?

26:32 What are the scripts that you teach in your workshops?

30:05 Why is cooking important and what are some realistic ways to make it happen?

32:31 Should parents use intuitive eating habits with their kids?

36:25 How can we be consistent with healthy eating without it feeling like one more thing to do on the list?

Learn more about Crystal on her website.

Join her Lift The Shame community, a free, virtual support group for mothers and moms-to-be in eating disorder recovery.

Listen to Crystal’s podcast, “Lift the Shame: Mothering Free From Diet Culture, Food Guilt, and Body Shame.”

Follow Crystal on Instagram.

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