Picky Eating in Children: Is Early Sugar and Salt the Cause? | Dr Low Child Specialist Batu Pahat
Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat
Is picky eating in children caused by giving sugar and salt too early? Dr Low from Pantai Hospital Batu Pahat explains the nutritional facts, possible medical causes, and why early intervention is crucial to prevent growth issues.
Is Picky Eating in Children Caused by Early Sugar and Salt? Insights from Dr Low Batu Pahat
Many parents wonder: “If I give my baby sugar and salt early on, will they become picky eaters later?”
This was one of the interesting questions raised during the Facebook Live session with Dr Low Han Nee, Child Specialist at Pantai Hospital Batu Pahat, in collaboration with Klinik Ezna.
Let’s break down the answer and understand what really causes picky eating in children.
❗ The No Sugar, No Salt Rule for Babies
Dr Low strongly emphasized that babies under 2 years old should not be given sugar or salt. This isn’t just a parenting trend—it’s backed by nutritional science. Babies’ kidneys are not mature enough to process high levels of sodium, and introducing sweet or salty tastes early can shift their preference away from natural foods.
✅ For optimal health, parents are encouraged to offer natural, unseasoned foods to develop a child’s genuine appreciation for whole, nutrient-rich meals.
🤔 Is Sugar and Salt the Real Reason for Picky Eating?
Contrary to popular belief, early sugar and salt exposure alone does not directly cause picky eating. According to Dr Low, picky eating is a common developmental phase and often influenced by multiple factors, including:
- Medical conditions such as ENT (ear, nose, throat) issues or endocrine disorders
- Psychological factors like anxiety or sensory sensitivity
- Growth-related concerns, especially if a child starts falling behind in weight or height
In fact, Dr Low admitted that even her own child is a picky eater—showing how common and complex the issue is!
🩺 The Importance of Medical Screening for Picky Eaters
Dr Low recommends that if a child is persistently refusing food and showing signs of poor growth, parents should consult a pediatrician.
At Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat, a full screening process is done to check if any underlying conditions are causing the eating difficulties.
“If picky eating is affecting growth charts—entering the yellow or red zones—intervention is necessary,” Dr Low explains. “Poor growth can lead to weak immunity, delayed development, and poor academic performance.”
💡 What Should Parents Do?
Dr Low’s advice is simple and actionable:
- Do not force-feed your child
- Observe growth trends (height, weight) using the clinic’s chart
- Seek professional help if picky eating persists
- Avoid assumptions—every child is different, and medical issues may be involved
🏥 Visit Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat
If your child is struggling with feeding or growth issues, don’t wait. Early intervention is key. Dr Low and her team offer gentle, personalized support for both parents and children.
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