My daughter refuses to eat any veggies. How can I make sure she gets enough nutrients each day?
- Priscilla

Start by setting a good example and eat a nutritious diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Then, use your imagination. Chop up veggies (try carrots or zucchini) and put them in foods like muffins, pancakes, or pasta sauce. Dress up veggies with something she enjoys — add cheese to broccoli, for example, or peanut butter to celery, or have her dip veggie sticks in yogurt.

Sometimes, all it takes is a fun arrangement to get kids eating. Make up a plate of mini foods (baby carrots, baby corn, cherry tomatoes, etc.) or make a face out of vegetables, complete with peas for eyes, a carrot for the nose, and sprouts for hair. Just make sure that veggies are cut into small enough pieces so they don't pose a choking risk.

If you have concerns about your child’s nutrition, talk to her doctor or talk to a registered dietician, who can help you deal with your finicky eater.

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: February 2010