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Episode 71: Why Standard Fussy Eating Advice Does Not Apply When Feeding Neurodivergent Children

The Easy Feed

Release Date: 09/01/2025

Episode 82: A case study of a fussy eater with ADHD on medication show art Episode 82: A case study of a fussy eater with ADHD on medication

The Easy Feed

In today’s episode, I walk you through a real-life case I’ve recently worked on with a family navigating fussy eating alongside ADHD medication. This little boy’s food intake had been narrowing for years, his appetite was poor, and his parents were feeling stuck in an exhausting cycle of pressure, worry and frustration around mealtimes. I unpack how ADHD medication can significantly impact appetite, why expecting children to “eat better” during the school day is often unrealistic, and how shifting the focus to when children are naturally hungrier can completely change outcomes. We...

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The Easy Feed

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Amy from Healthy Little Foodies—a recipe creator, food scientist and mum whose practical, flavour-packed ideas have helped millions of families feed their kids with more confidence. I first discovered Amy years ago and was instantly struck by how doable, nutritious and genuinely child-friendly her recipes were. So I wanted to sit her down, pick her brains, and uncover the thinking behind her incredible approach to children’s nutrition. We talk about how her global upbringing shaped her love of food, why feeding children feels harder than ever, and the...

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The Easy Feed

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As a Paediatric Dietician and mum, I know snacks can make or break the day. In this episode, I share three realistic, low-stress strategies to cut back on ultra-processed “sometimes foods” without going cold turkey. We look at why kids crave salty-sweet, crunchy packets, how “fast sugars” spike and crash energy and mood, and the simple swaps that stabilise blood sugars, support gut health, and keep children satisfied. If you’re juggling school runs, lunchboxes and picky or fussy eaters, this is your quick, easy food roadmap to more nutritious foods—minus the overwhelm. Five...

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Over my 24 years as a paediatric dietitian and 13 years as a mum to a once–fussy eater, I’ve seen firsthand that standard fussy eating advice simply does not work for many families in this space.

Neurodivergent children have their own feeding rules, sensory sensitivities, and unique routines. What works for one child may not work for another. 

In this episode, I share the seven truths I’ve learnt from supporting thosands of families: why it’s a long game, how to plug nutrient gaps safely, and why guilt is not helpful for parents. Most importantly, I want you to feel reassured that you are not alone, and that nutrition truly can transform your child’s daily life.

What we cover in this episode

  • Standard advice doesn’t apply – Why traditional “picky eater” strategies often fail with neurodivergent children

  • Progress looks different – Why food variety may expand slowly, or not at all, and why small wins count

  • The white diet is real – Understanding nutrient deficiencies and how to fill the gaps safely

  • It’s not your fault – Releasing parent guilt and reframing the mealtime experience

  • Gut health is critical – How gut–brain connections affect mood, learning, and behaviour

  • Specialised strategies work – Why food chaining, texture progression and tailored nutrition make a difference

  • Better nutrition, better daily life – Improved energy, focus, therapy participation, and overall wellbeing

Show notes & resources