Why is it important not to force children to finish their food?
Children generally regulate their food intake according to their needs. So if your child is a small eater, don't worry as long as his or her growth curve is satisfactory. However, it's important to maintain a good balance between foods. Respect his tastes and preferences, and don't risk turning mealtime into a moment of conflict between you and him. If he refuses a food, don't insist (it could disgust him), replace it with a food from the same family, and try to offer him the refused food again a few days later. Don't hesitate to consult your doctor, who can refer you to a specialist if necessary.
For further information, we recommend that you consult :
- The MangerBouger.fr website
- The Santé Publique France website, and its nutrition and physical activity section
- The ANSES website (Agence nationale de sécurité sanitaire de l'alimentation, de l'environnement et du travail), and its section on food and human nutrition.
- The French Nutrition Society website
- The report of the PNNS, Programme Nationale de Nutrition et Santé (2018-2023), which defines all nutritional recommendations.