Picky Eater vs. Feeding Disorder

Comparing signs & symptoms of picky eating and feeding disorders

Picky Eating

Picky eating is common during childhood, affecting 25-33% of children.
Toddlers find a sense of control in deciding what foods they will eat.

Symptoms

  • Strong preferences
  • Limited variety
  • Restricted number of tolerated foods
  • Avoiding new foods
  • Refusing ‘right’ amount of food
  • Requiring certain meals from parents
  • May eat differently in different settings

Feeding Disorder

Feeding disorders include severe and prolonged symptoms of picky eating.
They are often seen in children with a history of feeding problems (reflux, time
in NICU) and children with medical/developmental disorders.

Symptoms

  • Losing/not gaining weight
  • Frequent gagging/vomiting while eating
  • Crying/extreme distress during meal times
  • Difficulty chewing foods that are texturally appropriate for age
  • Taking longer than 30 minutes to finish meals/snacks
  • Refusing foods of certain types/textures