Picky Eater Picky eaters will accept 30 or more foods. picky eaters tend to limit food due to control. Picky eaters prefer a specific food for a lengthy period of time. Picky eaters may not have any medical issues. A picky eater will eat if they are hungry. Selective Eater Selective eaters accept less...
ArticlePicky Eater VS Selective Eater
Picky Eater
- Picky eaters will accept 30 or more foods.
- picky eaters tend to limit food due to control.
- Picky eaters prefer a specific food for a lengthy period of time.
- Picky eaters may not have any medical issues.
- A picky eater will eat if they are hungry.
Selective Eater
- Selective eaters accept less than 20 foods.
- Selective eaters tend to limit food intake secondary to fear or anxiety.
- Selective eaters will reject many foods.
- Selective eating disorders have several medical reasons that impact their food intake such as food trauma, issues with swallowing or oral motor delays, or GI issues.
- A selective eater will refuse food even when hungry.
If your child is considered a picky eater, it is possible for your child to limit food intake and over time (usually around age 5) they will begin to improve their food repertoire. However, if you notice your child has not improved their eating and receiving proper nutrition, you should notify your pediatrician so that you can receive the help your child needs to overcome their food aversions.