The Easy Feed

In this episode of The Easy Feed Podcast, I'm unpacking one of the biggest challenges parents face with a picky eater or fussy eater: understanding why children resist new foods in the first place. Because the truth is, there isn't one simple reason. Every child is different, and the strategies that work for one family may not work for another. I'll introduce you to my Feeding Ecosystem Framework, the approach I developed through 25 years as a paediatric dietitian and my own experience as a mum navigating fussy eating. Once you understand the child, the parent, and the feeding environment, you can stop guessing and start using strategies that actually support long-term progress. In This Episode Why Your Child Refuses New Foods Explore the most common reasons children reject unfamiliar foods and why it's rarely about being "difficult". The Hidden Impact of Mealtime Pressure Learn how well-meaning comments, rewards, and encouragement can unintentionally reinforce fussy eating. The Ripple Effect of Fussy Eating Discover how limited food variety can affect nutrient intake, family dynamics, confidence, and mealtime enjoyment. Understanding the Feeding Ecosystem Framework A practical look at the three key factors that influence childrens nutrition and food acceptance. Creating Real Progress Without Power Struggles Find out how to support your child to build trust, confidence, and curiosity around nutritious foods. If you're raising a picky eater and wondering how to improve nutrition for fussy eaters without turning meals into a battle, this episode will give you a fresh perspective and a practical starting point. Show Notes & Resources Healthy Recipes for Kids: https://nourishwithkarina.com/healthy-recipes-for-kids Free Kids Nutrition Library: https://nourishwithkarina.com/freeinfo Nutrition Consultation: https://nourishwithkarina.com/nutrition-consultation Join the Membership Waitlist: https://nourishwithkarina.com/membership

Constipation is one of the most common gut health challenges I see in children, yet many of the early warning signs are often missed. In this episode, I unpack what constipation really looks like in kids, why it's about much more than simply not doing a poo, and how it can affect appetite, feeding behaviours, mood, gut health, and overall wellbeing. As a paediatric dietitian with 25 years of experience in children's gut health, I explain why constipation is often more complex than just fibre and water. We explore the hidden causes, the role of the gut microbiome, withholding behaviours, toileting routines, and why early intervention matters. If you're raising a picky eater or fussy eater who struggles with tummy pain, poor appetite, withholding, or irregular bowel habits, this episode will help you understand what's really going on and what practical steps you can take to support your child's health. In This Episode Constipation Is More Than Not Pooing Learn the early signs parents often miss, even when children are still passing stools daily. The Hidden Causes Behind Constipation Discover how diet, fluid intake, dairy, withholding behaviours, gut health, and lifestyle factors can contribute. The Gut-Brain Connection Explained Understand how constipation can influence mood, focus, behaviour, appetite, and overall wellbeing. Why Fussy Eaters Are More At Risk Find out why picky eating patterns, limited food variety, and low fibre intake can impact bowel health. Simple Steps Parents Can Take Today Practical strategies to support healthy bowel habits, improve gut health, and reduce constipation early. Resources & Links Join one of Karina's Live Free Fussy Eater Training Sessions: Register for Free Live Training Discover Karina's Helpful Guides and Programs Nourish With Karina Shop Nutrition Consultation: Book a Nutrition Consultation

In this episode, I'm talking about supporting an overweight child without making food a battleground or creating a difficult relationship with their body in the process. As a Paediatric Dietitian with 25 years of clinical experience in children's nutrition, I know how much parents worry about getting this wrong. The guilt, the confusion, the fear of saying something that tips their child into disordered eating , it's real, and it matters. So I'm walking you through exactly how I approach this in consultations. My approach, what i do and what I definitely don't do!! In this episode, I cover: Why I Never Count Calories How I talk about hunger and eating The psychy of deprivation The Plate Balance Ultra-Processed Foods and Appetite Control Our role as parents Show Notes For quick easy food ideas and nutritious foods your family will actually eat: Healthy Recipes for Kids Access the Free Kids Nutrition Library — blogs, food reviews and guides all in one place: Free Info Ready to get a personalised plan for your child? Book a consultation here: Nutrition Consultation

Episode 86: How to Get Kids to Try New Foods If you've got a picky eater or a fussy eater at home who lives on pasta, bread, crackers or beige foods, then this episode is for you. I'm diving into the reality of the "white diet", why so many children get stuck there, and why the usual advice around repeated exposure or "just try one bite" often doesn't work. In this episode, I walk you through where to start and how to shift things in a way that actually works for your family. What we cover: Why kids get stuck on "white foods" Why common feeding strategies fail What's really driving picky eating. Three practical shifts that work Redefining success at mealtimes. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or exhausted by mealtimes, you're not alone. This episode will help you take that first step forward. Show notes: Free recipes and ideas: https://nourishwithkarina.com/healthy-recipes-for-kids Free guide: https://nourishwithkarina.com/white Learn more: https://nourishwithkarina.com Email: hello@nourishwithkarina.com

In this episode, I unpack the recent World Health Organization classification of processed meats and what it actually means for you and your family. After discussing this on Channel Seven's Sunrise, the response was immediate. Parents were confused and wanted clarity. So today, I break it down properly. We talk through the evidence, the real cancer risk data. Most importantly, I give you simple, realistic swaps using nutritious foods that are budget-friendly and practical for busy families. Five highlights from this episode: What "Group 1 Carcinogen" Actually Means The 50 Gram Rule What Makes Processed Meat Risky and whether Nitrate Free is OK? Why Frequency Matters for Children Five Practical Sandwich Swaps If you're supporting a picky eater or working towards better nutrition for fussy eaters, this episode gives you clarity and action. Show notes and links: 5 Days To Healthier Kids Challenge https://learn.nourishwithkarina.com/offers/YRVoTAD9/checkout Healthy kids recipes: https://nourishwithkarina.com/healthy-recipes-for-kids Feeding Kids Reset: https://nourishwithkarina.com/3weeks Connect with me: https://nourishwithkarina.com

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 talk through iron deficiency, constipation, fluid intake, growth concerns and how all of these pieces are deeply connected in children with limited diets. I also share practical, realistic strategies to boost calories and nutrients without forcing more food, reduce stress around lunchboxes, and help parents feel confident that they are not failing their child. This episode is especially relevant if you're supporting a picky eater or fussy eater with low appetite, poor weight gain, or nutrient concerns. If this episode resonates, you're not alone – and there is a clear, supportive way forward. Episode highlights ADHD medication and appetite – Why reduced appetite is common and how to work around it Timing nutrition strategically – Front-loading and back-ending the day to maximise intake Iron, constipation and growth – How low iron and bowel health affect appetite and energy Making foods work harder – Increasing calories and nutrients without increasing volume Reducing mealtime pressure – Supporting a healthier relationship with food for the whole family Show notes Healthy recipes and ideas for children: https://nourishwithkarina.com/healthy-recipes-for-kids

In this episode, I'm unpacking one of the most confusing and overwhelming parts of feeding kids today: food additives. This conversation comes straight off the back of my recent TV segments on Sunrise, where we talked about ice creams and ingredients lists. It sparked a lot of questions from parents, and honestly, it highlighted just how far our food supply has shifted over the years. Even foods we once thought were simple are now packed with additives, preservatives, sweeteners and colours that our grandparents wouldn't recognise. In this episode, I walk you through what food additives actually are, why they're used, and why they matter so much for children's nutrition. We talk about the evidence linking artificial colours and preservatives to children's behaviour and gut health, including the well-known University of Southampton study funded by the UK Food Standards Authority. I also share practical, realistic ways to reduce your child's additive load without aiming for perfection. If you're feeding a picky eater or fussy eater and trying to balance convenience with a healthy diet for fussy eaters, this episode will give you clarity, not fear. In this episode, we cover: The modern food problem How ultra-processed foods and misleading marketing have reshaped children's nutrition. What food additives actually are A clear breakdown of preservatives, colours, sweeteners, emulsifiers and more. What the research tells us The link between additives, gut health, inflammation and children's behaviour. Real-life examples parents ask about Ice blocks, "low sugar" products and why some swaps are not as healthy as they seem. Where to start without overwhelm Simple, realistic steps to reduce additives for your child, one food at a time. Helpful links and resources: Karina's Programs and Guides https://nourishwithkarina.com/programsandguides Karina's Supermarket Guru Program https://nourishwithkarina.com/guru

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 simple routines that keep meals calm, predictable and enjoyable—even with a picky eater or a fussy eater in the mix. Amy also shares why patience in the kitchen matters more than any technique, what she wishes every parent understood about feeding, and the story behind her most unexpectedly successful recipe of all time. If you're looking for grounded, real-world guidance from someone who understands nutritious foods, quick easy food, and the realities of children's nutrition, this conversation will absolutely support you. Episode Highlights The early influences How travel, family and exposure to diverse cuisines shaped Amy's approach to food. Why feeding kids feels harder today The impact of social media, advertising and overwhelm on parents' confidence. The power of routine for fussy eaters Why predictable mealtimes matter for appetite, calm and better eating. Patience in the kitchen How involving kids—even when messy—builds skills, confidence and long-term acceptance of nutritious foods. The recipe that surprised everyone The savoury muffin that became her most-visited recipe worldwide.

In this episode of The Easy Feed Podcast, I'm diving into a topic that so many parents quietly worry about — children who are underweight or struggling to gain weight. Whether it's a baby not feeding well, a toddler who's suddenly lost interest in food, or a teenager skipping meals, understanding the "why" behind poor weight gain is key. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience as a paediatric dietitian, I'll take you through the medical, nutritional, and behavioural factors that can affect growth, and what you can do about them. From gut health to sensory issues and neurodivergence, we'll unpack the signs to look out for, when to seek help, and how to support your child's nutrition in a way that feels calm and achievable. Highlights 1. Understanding growth patterns How to read growth charts correctly and know when to be concerned — and when not to. 2. Common causes of poor weight gain From feeding issues in babies to food sensitivities, intolerances, and gut health problems in older children. 3. Supporting neurodivergent children Practical ways to boost intake for children with ADHD or ASD, especially when appetite is reduced by medication. 4. Building healthy relationships with food Spotting early signs of restrictive eating in teens and creating a positive food environment at home. 5. Making every bite count Simple, evidence-based tips to increase calories and nutrients without mealtime stress. Show Notes Learn more about consultations https://nourishwithkarina.com/nutrition-consultation Contact: hello@nourishwithkarina.com Instagram: @nourishwithkarina

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 discussion highlights Whole-food first Smarter packets One homemade fix Dopamine & "fast sugars" Progress, not perfection Show notes & resources Healthy recipes for kids: https://nourishwithkarina.com/healthy-recipes-for-kids Over 100 Free Kids' Food Reviews: https://nourishwithkarina.com/food-reviews Blog on Reducing Kids Junk Food Snacks: https://nourishwithkarina.com/blog/junksnacks Supermarket Guru Program: https://learn.nourishwithkarina.com/offers/LYqTBCzM Karina's Recipe Book: nourishwithkarina.com/recipebook More about Karina and Nourishing Kids! Join Karina's 5 Days to Healthier Kids Challenge https://learn.nourishwithkarina.com/5-days-to-healthier-kids-challenge 📒 Grab Karina's Time Saving Healthy Supermarket Kids Snacks Guide now for the INTRO offer https://karina-savage.mykajabi.com/offers/GkPU49mj Karina's popular Nourishing Kids lifts the "food stress" load, giving mums a clear plan to get kids trying new healthy foods and guidance on how to feed their family more easily! Learn more here https://nourishwithkarina.com/nourishingkids Karina is a regular on Channel 7, Sunrise. Check out her segments here: https://nourishwithkarina.com/press For online consultations & personalised support. Click here https://nourishwithkarina.com/nutrition-consultation Karina's popular Kids Food Reviews are here https://nourishwithkarina.com/food-reviews If you have a Fussy Eater, register for Karina's online training and learn the 3 Essential Steps required to end fussy eating. https://nourishwithkarina.easywebinar.live/endfussyeating

Easy Feed Podcast Episode 72 Today I'm joined by Nourishing Kids member Jemma, a mum of two who shares her journey from the early days of reflux and sleepless nights to navigating fussy eating and finding peace at the dinner table. I've had the privilege of working with Jemma for several years, and her story is one that so many parents will relate to. From the guilt of wondering what's "wrong," to the relief of discovering the right support, Jemma's experience is a reminder that feeding challenges are not a reflection of failure, but a part of parenting that can be transformed with the right tools. In this episode, we talk through the ups and downs, the small wins that built momentum (like that first bite of chicken!), and the mindset shifts that helped Jemma change her family's relationship with food. If you're raising a picky or fussy eater, this conversation will reassure you that you're not alone—and that positive change is possible. 5 Highlights from the Episode From reflux to resilience – How Jemma's daughter's severe reflux shaped her early feeding experiences. The role of guilt – Why so many parents feel guilt when mealtimes don't go as planned, and how to let go of it. Mindset shifts that matter – The surprising strategies that helped Jemma reduce pressure and see her child thrive. Small wins, big impact – Why celebrating little steps (like trying new foods) can completely change the mealtime dynamic. Finding support and community – How sharing experiences with other mums can bring relief, hope, and encouragement. Show Notes If you're struggling with a picky eater or fussy eater and need practical tools, my Fussy Eater Program inside my Nourishing Kids Membership will help you move towards calmer, happier mealtimes. Explore more nutritious foods and quick easy food ideas with my Healthy Recipes for Kids. For tailored support, visit me at Nourish with Karina.

Hello, hello and welcome back to The Easy Feed. Today I'm diving into a topic that so many parents ask me about—protein. How much do our children really need? Where should it come from? And are protein powders ever necessary? As a paediatric dietitian and mum, I know first-hand how challenging it can be to keep lunchboxes nutritious, especially when dealing with a fussy eater or a child following a vegetarian diet. While most kids easily meet their protein requirements, the real issue is often the quality of that protein. In this episode, I unpack the difference between dairy-based proteins and those rich in fibre, iron and zinc, and why focusing on variety is key to supporting your child's long-term health. We'll also explore whether protein powders have a place in children's diets, what to look for if you choose one, and why whole, real foods should always come first. ⭐ Highlights of the Episode Protein needs made simple – How much protein children actually require each day and why most already meet these needs. Quality matters – The difference between dairy protein and plant-based proteins rich in fibre, iron and zinc. Gut health connection – Why fibre-rich protein foods support digestion, immunity, mood and learning. Protein powders in kids – When (and if) they're useful, and how to choose a safe option. Practical swaps and ideas – Easy, real food ways to boost protein for even the fussiest eaters. Supporting a picky eater or fussy eater can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to balance a healthy diet for fussy eaters with the reality of busy school days. As a children's nutritionist and paediatric dietitian, I know that parents often worry about protein. In this episode, I explain how to get enough nutritious foods into your child's diet without relying on supplements, and when quick, easy food swaps can make a big difference to their nutrition. You'll also find inspiration for boosting fibre, iron and protein in a way that even fussy eaters will enjoy. If you've been wondering about children's nutrition and the role of protein powders, this episode will give you clarity and practical solutions. 👉 Explore more nutritious and kid-friendly recipes here: Healthy Recipes for Kids 👉 For more support, resources and guidance on nutrition for fussy eaters, visit my website at: Nourish with Karina 📌 Show Notes 🌟 Join Karina's 5 Days to Healthier Kids Challenge https://learn.nourishwithkarina.com/5-days-to-healthier-kids-challenge 📒 Grab Karina's Time Saving Healthy Supermarket Kids Snacks Guide (Intro Offer) https://karina-savage.mykajabi.com/offers/GkPU49mj 🍎 Karina's popular Nourishing Kids lifts the "food stress" load, giving mums a clear plan to get kids trying new healthy foods and guidance on how to feed their family more easily! Learn more here: https://nourishwithkarina.com/nourishingkids 🎙️ Her Podcast The Easy Feed dives into popular topics – check it out here: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-easy-feed/id1710594874 📺 Karina is a regular on Channel 7, Sunrise. Check out her segments here: https://nourishwithkarina.com/press 👩‍⚕️ For online consultations & personalised support: https://nourishwithkarina.com/nutrition-consultation ⭐ Karina's popular Kids Food Reviews are here: https://nourishwithkarina.com/food-reviews 🥦 If you have a Fussy Eater, register for Karina's online training and learn the 3 Essential Steps required to end fussy eating: https://nourishwithkarina.easywebinar.live/endfussyeating

Hi lovely people, Karina here. In this episode of The Easy Feed Podcast, I'm diving into five of the most common questions I get from parents navigating the world of kids' nutrition. Whether you've got a picky eater, a milk-obsessed toddler, or you're simply wondering about multivitamins and organic food, this episode is for you. We're cutting through the noise of online advice, and getting back to what's evidence-based and actually works in real family life. Because feeding our kids shouldn't be a constant battle – it should be simple, realistic, and supportive. Here's what I cover in this episode: 1. Do Kids Grow Out of Fussy Eating? A deep dive into what actually helps kids expand their diet – and why some don't just grow out of it on their own. 2. How Much Milk is Too Much? Why excess milk can impact your child's appetite, fibre, and iron – and what a paediatric dietitian really recommends. 3. Getting Kids to Eat More Vegetables Simple strategies that go beyond "just make it fun" – practical advice that fits into everyday life. 4. Do Kids Really Need Supplements? When they're helpful, when they're not, and how to make smart, intentional choices for your child's nutritional needs. 5. Should You Buy Organic? My evolving thoughts on organic food and how I balance it realistically in my own home. I also share a super handy resource – my Healthy Supermarket Snacks Guide, packed with 80+ dietitian-approved options to save you time and stress. Grab it here: https://nourishwithkarina.com/healthy-recipes-for-kids Show Notes: More about Karina and Nourishing Kids! 📒 Grab Karina's Time Saving Healthy Supermarket Kids Snacks Guide now for the INTRO offer https://karina-savage.mykajabi.com/offers/GkPU49mj Karina's popular Nourishing Kids lifts the "food stress" load, giving mums a clear plan to get kids trying new healthy foods and guidance on how to feed their family more easily! Learn more here https://nourishwithkarina.com/nourishingkids Her Podcast The Easy Feed dives into popular topics - check it out here https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-easy-feed/id1710594874 Karina is a regular on Channel 7, Sunrise. Check out her segments here: https://nourishwithkarina.com/press For online consultations & personalised support. Click here https://nourishwithkarina.com/nutrition-consultation Karina's popular Kids Food Reviews are here https://nourishwithkarina.com/food-reviews If you have a Fussy Eater, register for Karina's online training and learn the 3 Essential Steps required to end fussy eating. https://nourishwithkarina.easywebinar.live/endfussyeating