‘Complex problem’
Massey University senior lecturer Cath Conlon said having a child with restrictive eating issues could be an emotional experience for the whole family.
‘‘It is a complex problem and what we want to do is unravel it enough so the children can eat a healthy diet.’’
Dr Conlon said there were things that could be done to improve fussy eating — for example, children were more likely to eat things they had been involved in choosing and preparing.
It was a slow and difficult process, but worth addressing at a young age, Dr Conlon said.