Dear Tanya,

I have the world’s pickiest eaters! They seriously do not like any “real food.” If it was up to them, they would be eating junk food all day. My mother tells me that we were the same way as kids and outgrew it eventually and turned out just fine, but I’m still very stressed about it and feel like they’re not getting any proper nutrients. Do you have any advice or suggestions for me?

Tanya responds:

Welcome to motherhood where we stress about…everything! The number one piece of advice I can give you is to not make a big deal about it! As you may know, kids love doing or not doing what gets our attention and the more you focus on it, the more they’ll continue to eat junk and not eat what you want them to, just to get your attention and reaction. Here are some practical suggestions:

Tanya Rosen, M.S CAI CPT, is a nutritionist, personal trainer and owner of Nutrition by Tanya with locations in Monsey, Flatbush, Boro Park, Williamsburg and Lakewood. Tanya is the creator of the TAP (Tanya Approved Products) line available on her website, offices and select supermarkets, offering all-natural, low-calorie delicious snacks and food. Tanya is also the creator of the Shape Fitness Kosher workout DVDs for ladies and teens, available in all Judaica stores. Tanya can be reached at 844-TANYA-DIET or via email at [email protected]. You can check out her website by visiting www.nutritionbytanya.com.

 By Tanya Rosen