Children · 8 authors, 4 centres
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This randomized controlled trial compared nutritional guidance alone to guidance plus oral supplementation in preschool picky eaters over 6 months. Supplemented children had improved weight and height gain without excess fat, and better micronutrient intake and appetite, but the study had a small sample size and used unvalidated scales.
Picky eating in preschool children can lead to nutrient deficiencies and growth impairment. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of oral nutritional supplementation on growth and nutrient intake. Methods: A randomized, single-blind, controlled clinical trial was conducted with 35 children (17 control, 18 intervention) aged 24-60 months with picky eating. The control group received nutritional guidance alone, while the intervention group received guidance plus oral supplementation (400 calories/day) for 180 days. Outcomes included anthropometry, body composition, nutrient intake, appetite, physical activity, global health, and health complications. Key Results: Supplemented children showed significant weight and height gain (z-score increase) without increased BMI or body fat percentage. They had higher intake of iron, zinc, vitamins D, C, B12, and folate compared to controls. Appetite scores improved in the intervention group. No significant differences were found in physical activity or global health. Health complications increased in the control group but not in the intervention group. Limitations: Small sample size due to COVID-19, use of unvalidated scales for appetite and other outcomes, and potential bias from lack of direct supervision. Implications: Supplementation may help improve growth and nutrient intake in picky eaters without causing obesity, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.
