Why Kids Become Picky Eaters ...And What Parents Can Do

Eating has become more confusing than ever. Between diet culture, viral nutrition trends, and social media influencers promoting rigid ideas about “healthy eating,” many people are feeling anxious, guilty, or overwhelmed about food. In this episode of The Mental Health Break Podcast, psychologist Nafisa Sekandari sits down with eating disorder specialist Jessica Setnick to unpack a powerful truth: anyone who eats can potentially struggle with food. They explore how diet culture and online nutrition advice have complicated our relationship with eating and how these pressures can quietly impact both adults and children. This conversation also dives into one of the biggest challenges parents face today—picky eaters—and what parents can do to support kids in developing a healthier relationship with food. As part of The Happiness Project’s March theme on parenting, this episode offers practical insights to help families reduce food stress, avoid harmful food messaging, and create a healthier environment around eating. If you’ve ever felt confused about what to eat, worried about your child’s eating habits, or struggled with guilt around food, this conversation will bring clarity, compassion, and a much-needed perspective. In this episode we discuss: • Why anyone who eats can struggle with food • The hidden impact of diet culture • How social media influences eating habits • Signs of disordered eating • Why children become picky eaters • How parents can reduce mealtime stress • Helping kids develop a healthy relationship with food • Raising emotionally healthy children Subscribe for more conversations on mental health, parenting, personal growth, and building a happier life through The Happiness Project.