Here Are Some Of The Possible Reasons Why Your Toddler Only Eats And Consume Fruit

As a parent, you take into consideration everything that you feed your toddler. Have you noticed that your toddler only eats or consumes fruit? Toddlers are infamously picky eaters. Their palate isn’t precisely developed, and as a result, they may not consume what you want them to because they tend to develop being picky kids and they just want fruit. You may wonder if this is something you should try.

A kid eating his banana. It is amazing that there are some children that they like bananas, apples, and other healthy food. — Source: commons.wikimedia.org

To change or something you should let naturally happen or introduce new ways to eat new foods aside from fruit.

Let’s talk about a toddler who doesn’t eat veggies because they like to eat their favorite foods and only consume bananas or apples. Many children will prefer having them over anything else. Chances are, you raised them on applesauce and other fruit snacks, so it makes sense according to the feeding therapist. Fruit is sweet, and has a different texture than veggies, and that makes them preferable for a kid.

The Good Of Fruits

Fruits are undoubtedly good for you. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Bananas are packed with potassium; oranges have vitamin C, and so on. The natural sugars of apples give your kid some energy, which is always good when they have a long day of playing. This is really nice for kids who are considered healthy eater.

With that said, veggies like baby carrots have other nutrients that babies need to grow, and as a parent, you want your kid to have the proper nutrition and all the nutrients possible to make sure they are growing well. If they aren’t getting all the nutrients, what should you do? Here are some options.

What Can You Get When You Eat Fruits?

Multi-Vitamins For Toddler

Multivitamins are always good when your diet is missing some essential vitamins and minerals, and you can find multivitamins with sweet flavors specifically for a kid’s needs. With that said, multivitamins aren’t a complete substitute for getting your nutrients through the natural way. However, it may be the right temporary solution as your baby’s tastes grow, and they can eventually get their nutrients naturally.

When a toddler only eats fruits, providing them a multivitamins in a sippy cup is a bit longer but crucial to address potential nutritional gaps, especially if their diet consists of only one food or is low fat.

Should You Force Veggies?

You may find yourself saying, “My toddler eats only fruit,” and wonder if you have to get your kids to eat veggies. You may do the old cliché of not offering any dessert until your kid eats all the vegetables. Some other parents tried to hide veggies when serving them. However, this rarely works. A kid is not exactly reasonable, and he or she may eat only what they want.

As your kid grows, giving them a more well-rounded diet is a good idea. However, if your kid is at a normal weight and your doctor says they are good, then you may not need to worry about it as much. However, there are ways to introduce veggies into a kid’s diet. Here are a few ways.

A toddler with her meal — Source: pixabay.com

Ways to Introduce Vegetables To A Toddler

Try Sweeter Vegetables

Some vegetables are sweeter and may help your kid develop a taste for veggies. Sweet potatoes, for instance, make a great choice. They’re a favorite among toddlers. Similarly, sweet corn and butternut squash are also big hits. To diversify their intake, you may want to mix in other veggies with these sweet options or even serve them as juice in toddler cups for best results. This method is an excellent way to act as a middleman in introducing new flavors.

Introduce Food Groups Veggies, But Don’t Push

Give your child a plate of a variety of veggies and wait until she’ll eat. Let them try each one and see if they like it. Your child may end up having a few favorites they don’t like. With that said, your baby won’t develop a taste for certain foods you make them eat. Give them the option and prepare them adequately. If you push them, your kid will see veggies as this bad thing that is forced on them.

Prepare The Veggies For Picky Eating Kids In Different Ways

Another way you can try to give your kid a say is to prepare the veggies in many different ways. Try sauteing the vegetables, lightly buttering them, or giving them some spice. While you shouldn’t over-butter or spice them, a little bit may help your baby quite a bit. It will help your son eat more vegetables.

Putting a bit of peanut butter or cream cheese on the veggies is also an excellent way to introduce your kid to vegetables or try it with different foods.

The point is, if you’re preparing the veggies raw or barely cooked, you’re doing it wrong as they won’t eat anything. Be creative, and you will be rewarded. Often, parents make no effort to prepare vegetables, and that’s why the kids hate them.

Try Juices

If you want your child to have veggies, try juices and pair them with a healthy snack. Your baby may end up liking vegetable juice. There are vegetable juices that have fruit in them and have a sweeter taste. This may be good for your baby if they’re picky. Some kid’s juices can deliver the goods and make your baby forget they’re drinking veggies even for dinner time.

A healthy carrot juice and raw carrots — Source: pixabay.com

Don’t Give Toddler Too Much

If your baby doesn’t clean off their plate, don’t get mad. You have to remember that babies have a smaller stomachs than us, and they may end up not needing too many veggies to feel full. So give a little handful of vegetables for meals and snacks, and let him or her eat to their heart’s content. Chances are, they will feel full and ready to take on the world.

Sneak The Veggies In

For a toddler who eats a little and is very picky, some parents like to sneak the veggies in. For example, they may put a little bit of lettuce in the pasta for lunch, or some shredded carrot on a burger for breakfast. This can get your baby to like the taste of veggies without them even knowing. With that said, you should make sure that your child still willingly eats fruit and vegetables, too. Let them eat vegetables directly and let them eat stealthily too.

Remember, Their Tastes Will Grow

Think of when you were young. Chances are, you were picky too. If you grew out of it and can now eat a variety of food groups, then chances are, your kid will as well. Introducing them to proper child’s eating is important, but it’s not something you need to rush too much if your baby is very young. As your baby grows, they may learn to eat more when they are hungry, and get out of their comfort zone. As they grow, instead of lamenting that your kid eats only fruit, they may begin to explore a variety of foods themselves.

A toddler consuming her vegetables — Source: flickr.com

Concentrate On Other Aspects of Health

If they are having a hard time eating vegetables, spend your time on other parts of their health. Give them lots of water. Make sure they’re playing and exercising a lot too. If one healthy habit is having a hard time, then you can try another one. Again, as long as your doctor is saying that everything is good, then you shouldn’t worry too much about feeding them vegetables. Good luck.

Kids Consume Barely Fruits Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Consuming Too Many Bananas Or Apples Bad For A Kid?

Yes, too much serve of fruit can be bad for a toddler. The recommended daily intake of fruits for toddlers is 2 to 3 servings, depending on their activity level. Too much can cause bloating or other intestinal distress, as well as sugar cravings. Additionally, while it may be rich in vitamins and nutrients like fiber, too much of it is not good. It also has no healthy fat and protein, which your kid needs for a balanced diet.

How Do I Get My Two-Year-Old To Have Bananas Or Apples?

Forcing or criticizing your child won’t work. You have to be a good role model and show them good habits. When you encourage them, tell your child that you will be with them. It may also help to keep the fruit within sight, provide a variety of food, milk, chicken, yogurt, candy, meat, crackers, and cereal and give them slices instead of whole.

Is It Normal For Kids To Be Picky Eaters?

It is normal for kids to be picky. As a parent, you may be worried if they are getting what they need for proper growth. However, remember that your child is growing rapidly and starting to learn new things. Thus, their appetite slows down and may start to consume less.

Can Kids Barely Eat Fruits And No Vegetables?

If your toddler only eats fruits, they may not get the multitude of vitamins and minerals that different vegetables have. They don’t need to consume as much as adults do, so you can slowly introduce vegetables to their diet.

How Many Bananas Or Apples Should A Two-Year-Old Have?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 2 to 3 servings of apples, bananas, pineapple, or mangoes daily. One serving is equal to half or ¼ cup of cooked or canned or quarter to half a cup of fresh apple juice.

Can A Kid Have A Banana Every Day?

A kid can have a banana every day. Bananas are ideal as a starter solid food for your kid for several reasons. However, remember to keep your child hydrated well and look out for their bowel habits. It is nice as well to introduce them to others such as strawberries and apples.

What Do You Do When Your Two-Year-Old Doesn’t Want To Have Something?

To encourage your child, don’t force them. Instead, be patient with them and establish a schedule for their meals. It would also help to set up a positive and fun eating environment, so they are more likely to look forward to mealtimes. Don’t give them too much of what they need to consume and be a role model for good eating habits.

How Do I Get My Kid To Try Bananas?

You can mash a banana and feed it to your kid. If they don’t like the texture or taste, you can also freeze up banana slices and come up with fun dips, like pureed strawberry or peanut butter. Likewise, you can give them slices of banana alongside others such as apples to make it more fun and colorful. That way, they can focus on the medley of tastes and not the texture. You can fill their jug with juice with fruit in it.

It is not uncommon for children to go through phases of decreased appetite or picky eating. It is considered a normal part of their development and usually does not pose a significant health concern. Many children experience periods of selective eating or refusing certain foods during different stages of childhood.

During these phases, children may show less interest in eating or maybe more particular about the foods they consume. They may refuse certain textures, colors, or tastes, or they may simply eat smaller amounts than usual. These phases can be influenced by factors such as growth spurts, changes in taste preferences, exploration of independence, or even environmental influences.

It’s important to distinguish between typical picky eating and more severe feeding difficulties that may require professional intervention. If a child’s growth or overall health is being negatively affected, it is recommended to consult with a pediatrician or a registered dietitian for guidance and support.

Here are a few general tips for handling picky eating phases:

Offer a variety of nutritious foods: Continue to provide a balanced diet with a fruit variety, vegetables, whole grains, and protein sources. Offer different options and allow your child to explore new foods at their own pace.
Maintain a positive eating environment: Create a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere during mealtimes. Avoid pressuring or forcing your child to eat, as it can lead to negative associations with food.
Be a role model: Demonstrate healthy eating habits yourself and eat meals together as a family. Children are more likely to try new foods when they see others enjoying them.
Involve your child in food preparation: Let your child participate in age-appropriate kitchen activities, such as washing fruit or vegetable or helping with simple meal preparations. This involvement can increase their interest in trying new foods.
Don’t use food as a reward or punishment: Avoid using dessert or treats as a bribe for eating certain foods, as it may reinforce picky eating habits.

Remember that these phases of picky children are typically temporary and most children eventually grow out of them. Patience and a positive approach to mealtimes can help create a healthy relationship with food for your child.

There are certain foods that are generally not recommended for children due to their potential to cause health issues or pose a choking hazard. Here are some examples:

Honey: Honey should not be given to infants under one year of age due to the risk of botulism, a type of food poisoning caused by bacteria that can be present in honey.
Choking hazards: Young children, especially those under four years old, are at a higher risk of choking. Foods that can be potential choking hazards include whole grapes, popcorn, nuts and seeds, large chunks of raw vegetable or fruit, hard candies, and chunks of meat or cheese.
Unpasteurized dairy products and juices: Unpasteurized milk, cheese, and juices may contain harmful bacteria, such as E. coli or Salmonella, which can be particularly risky for young children with developing immune systems.
High-mercury fish: Certain types of fish, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, are known to have high levels of mercury. These should be avoided in young children as mercury can adversely affect their developing nervous systems. Instead, opt for lower-mercury fish like salmon, trout, and shrimp.
Added sugars: Foods with high amounts of added sugars, such as sugary drinks, candies, cookies, and sweetened cereals, should be limited in children’s diets. Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to dental cavities, unhealthy weight gain, and poor nutrition.
Highly processed and fried foods: It’s generally beneficial to limit the consumption of highly processed foods like fast food, chips, and sugary snacks. These foods tend to be high in unhealthy fats, sodium, and added sugars while lacking essential nutrients.

It’s important to note that the specific dietary recommendations for children may vary based on their age, developmental stage, and individual needs. Consulting with a pediatrician or a registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance regarding your child’s nutritional requirements and any specific dietary restrictions they may have.

It is a healthy and important part of a child’s diet, it is generally not recommended for a child that eats only apples for example as their only source of nutrition. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, but it may not provide all the necessary nutrients needed for healthy growth and development.

A well-balanced diet for children typically includes a variety of foods from different food groups, such as grains, protein sources (meat, poultry, fish, beans, etc.), dairy or dairy alternatives, and fruit and vegetables. Each food group offers unique nutrients that contribute to overall health.

Relying only on fruit may result in inadequate intake of certain nutrients, such as protein, healthy fats, iron, calcium, and vitamin B12, which are important for growth, muscle development, bone health, and cognitive function.

Additionally, consuming a diet primarily composed of fruit may lead to imbalances in blood sugar levels due to the high natural sugar content in fruit. This can result in spikes and drops in energy levels, which can be problematic, particularly for sustained energy throughout the day.

Encouraging children to eat a wide variety of foods, including fruit, can help ensure they receive a balanced intake of essential nutrients. If you find that your child is particularly selective with their food choices, it’s beneficial to consult with a pediatrician or a registered dietitian to ensure their nutritional needs are being met. They can provide guidance on how to introduce and incorporate a wider range of foods into your child’s diet while still including their preferred fruit.

Encouraging your child to eat a variety of foods beyond fruit can be a gradual process. Here are some tips to help expand their food preferences:

Lead by example: Children often mimic their parents’ eating habits. Show enthusiasm for trying and enjoying a variety of foods yourself. Let them see you eating vegetables, proteins, whole grains, and other nutritious foods.
Offer a variety of options: Provide a range of nutritious foods at each meal, including fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. Ensure there are different colors, textures, and flavors to make the meals more visually appealing and interesting.
Involve your child in meal planning and preparation: Engage your child in selecting recipes, grocery shopping, and preparing meals. They are more likely to try new foods if they have participated in the process. Let them wash vegetables, mix ingredients, or even help with simple tasks in the kitchen.
Start with small portions: Offer small portions of new or less preferred foods alongside familiar foods. Encourage your child to take at least a few bites of the new food. Gradually increase the portion sizes over time.
Make mealtimes enjoyable: Create a positive and relaxed atmosphere during meals. Avoid pressuring or forcing your child to eat certain foods, as it can create negative associations with those foods. Use mealtime as an opportunity for family bonding and conversation.
Be creative with presentation: Make the food visually appealing by arranging it in fun shapes and vegetables into colorful patterns. Use cookie cutters to create interesting shapes from sandwiches. Children are often attracted to visually appealing foods.
Offer dips and sauces: Pairing new foods with familiar dips or sauces can make them more appealing. For example, provide a yogurt dip with fruit or a hummus dip with vegetables. These additions can enhance the taste and texture experience for your child.
Encourage gradual exploration: Introduce new foods gradually and repeatedly. It often takes several exposures to a new food before a child develops a taste for it. Don’t give up if they reject it initially. Continue offering it in different forms or preparations.
Celebrate successes: Praise and reward your child’s efforts to try new foods, even if they only take a small bite. Positive reinforcement can encourage them to be more open to trying new foods in the future.

Remember, each child is different, and it may take time for their food preferences to expand. Patience, consistency, and a positive approach are key. If you have concerns about your child’s eating habits or nutrition, consulting with a pediatrician or a registered dietitian can provide additional guidance tailored to your child’s needs.

If your baby is showing a strong preference for only eating fruit and is resistant to consuming other types of food, there are several steps you can take to encourage a more balanced diet. Here are some strategies to try:

Introduce new foods gradually: Start by introducing only small portions of other nutritious foods alongside the fruit your baby enjoys. Offer a variety of vegetables, whole grains, and proteins in a visually appealing way.
Mix fruit with other foods: If your baby enjoys only fruit, you can gradually start mixing in small amounts of other pureed foods, such as vegetables or grains. Gradually increase the proportion of non-fruit foods while reducing the fruit content over time.
Offer a variety of flavors: Introduce different flavors and textures to your baby’s diet. Offer a range of vegetables, meats, legumes, and grains. Varying the taste and texture of foods can help expand their palate.
Be persistent and patient: It may take several attempts before your baby accepts new foods. Offer them consistently and repeatedly, even if they are initially rejected. Keep in mind that babies often need multiple exposures to a food before accepting it.
Set a good example: Show your baby that you enjoy a variety of foods by eating them yourself. Babies often mimic the eating habits of their caregivers, so modeling healthy eating behaviors can have a positive influence on their food choices.
Offer finger foods: As your baby grows and develops fine motor skills, introduce age-appropriate finger foods. Soft, cooked vegetables, small pieces of cheese or meat, and whole grain crackers can be appealing options. Let your baby explore and self-feed, which can increase their interest in trying new foods.
Stay relaxed and positive: Make mealtimes enjoyable and stress-free. Avoid pressuring or forcing your baby to eat certain foods. Keep a positive and supportive atmosphere, and offer praise and encouragement for their efforts.
Consult with a pediatrician or dietitian: If you’re concerned about your baby’s limited food choices or if their nutritional needs are not being met, seek guidance from a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your baby’s specific needs.

Remember that every baby is different, and it’s normal for them to go through phases of food preferences. With time, patience, and a gradual approach, you can help your baby develop a broader palate and a balanced diet.

There can be several reasons why a child may refuse solid foods. Here are some possible factors to consider:

Developmental stage: Children go through various developmental stages, including changes in their feeding behaviors. It’s possible that your child is going through a phase of food refusal as they explore their independence or experience changes in their oral motor skills. They may need some time to adjust to new textures and flavors.
Sensory preferences: Children have different sensory preferences when it comes to food. Some may be more sensitive to certain textures, tastes, or smells, which can make them resistant to trying new foods. They may prefer familiar textures, such as pureed or soft foods, and find it challenging to transition to solid foods.
Negative experiences: A negative experience, such as choking or gagging on solid foods, can create anxiety and lead to food refusal. It’s important to ensure a safe and supportive feeding environment to help rebuild trust and confidence around eating.
Illness or discomfort: If your child is unwell or experiencing teething pain, they may temporarily lose their appetite for solid foods. Monitor their overall health and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about their well-being.
Emotional factors: Emotional factors such as stress, anxiety, or changes in routine or environment can affect a child’s appetite and willingness to consume them. Major life events, transitions, or emotional distress can impact their eating behaviors.
Parental feeding practices: Parental feeding practices can influence a child’s eating behaviors. Pressure to eat, forcing certain foods, or using food as a reward or punishment can create a negative relationship with food, leading to food refusal.

If your child’s refusal of solid foods persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or persistent refusal to consume any food, it is recommended to consult with a pediatrician or a feeding specialist. They can evaluate your child’s specific situation and provide guidance and support tailored to their needs.

In the meantime, you can try the following strategies:

Offer a toddler a variety of textures and flavors in small, manageable portions.
Involve your toddler in meal planning and preparation to increase their engagement and curiosity about new foods.
Create a positive and relaxed eating environment for a toddler.
Respect your toddler preferences and avoid pressuring them to have something to nibble.
Focus on offering a balanced diet to a toddler with a variety of nutritious foods, including fruit, vegetables, grains, and proteins, in age-appropriate forms.

Remember, each child is unique, and it may take time and patience to navigate through food refusal.

They are generally a healthy addition to a child’s diet as they provide essential vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. While all offer nutritional benefits, some are particularly nutrient-dense and can be considered among the healthiest options for children. Here are a few examples:

Berries: Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. They are low in calories and can support immune health, brain function, and overall well-being.
Citrus: Citrus like oranges, mandarins, grape fruit, and lemons are excellent sources of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. They also provide dietary fiber and other beneficial compounds.
Bananas: Bananas are a great source of potassium, vitamin B6, dietary fiber, and provide quick energy. They are also easily digestible, making them suitable for infants and kids.
Apples: Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C. They also contain antioxidants and provide a satisfying crunch. To maximize the nutritional value, encourage your child to have an apple with its skin, which contains additional fiber and nutrients.
Kiwi: Kiwi is packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and dietary fiber. Its unique flavor and texture can be appealing to children.
Mangoes: Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. They are sweet and juicy, making them a favorite for many children.
Grapes: Grapes are a good source of hydration, fiber, and antioxidants. They can be served whole or cut into smaller pieces for younger children to minimize choking risk.

Remember that the healthiest choices for children are those that provide a variety of nutrients and are part of a balanced diet. Offering a mix and encouraging your child to consume a rainbow of colors can help ensure they receive a wide range of beneficial nutrients.

Toddler Eat Fruits: Other Resources

https://www.yummytoddlerfood.com/advice/picky-eating/help-my-toddler-only-eats-three-foods/

https://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/feeding/problems/the-top-10-feeding-challenges-and-how-to-solve-them/

https://www.netmums.com/coffeehouse/drop-clinic-984/weaning-560/719089-toddler-just-wants-fruit-sounds-like-good-thing-isnt.html

Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Raymond Sy Tamco

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My Toddler Only Wants & Eats Fruit: Should I Be Worried For My Kid Or Not?