No, they are not naughty, why kids really refuse veggies: Delhi nutritionist reveals the gut secret behind picky eating

Mealtime battles with children are common, but Delhi-based nutritionist Lovneet Batra says picky eating is not about bad behaviour. In a recent Instagram post, she explained that a child’s refusal to eat certain foods is often rooted in biology, not attitude. Understanding the gut–brain connection can turn stressful mealtimes into calmer, healthier experiences.

The Gut Talks, the Brain Listens

The secret lies in the gut–brain communication via the vagus nerve. When a child’s gut microbiome lacks diversity, neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine can be disrupted, affecting appetite, taste perception, and food interest. “A child rejecting food may simply have a gut that isn’t signalling correctly,” Batra explains, highlighting how biology—not stubbornness—often drives picky eating.

Why Kids Refuse Food

Sensory sensitivities play a role too. Strong reactions to texture, smell, or colour can make food overwhelming. Nutrient deficiencies—particularly iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B12—can further reduce appetite. Pressured or stressful mealtimes also backfire, as cortisol spikes suppress appetite and intensify aversion. Forcing bites or bribing often worsens the problem.

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A post shared by Lovneet Batra (@lovneetb)

Fix the Biology, Not the Behaviour

Batra recommends strategies that address the root cause of picky eating:

• Boost gut health with small, regular servings of fermented foods.
• Train the senses by introducing one texture at a time.
• Correct nutrient gaps through diet or supplements.
• Create stress-free meals to calm both the gut and mind.

A calmer gut leads to a calmer nervous system, naturally increasing a child’s willingness to try new foods. “Don’t fix the behaviour. Fix the biology, and the behaviour follows,” she advises.

Lovneet Batra, an award-winning clinical nutritionist based in Delhi, runs Nutrition By Lovneet, promoting sustainable, no-deprivation health practices. A graduate of Michigan State University, she blends traditional Indian ingredients with modern nutrition science. Author of the best-selling 50 Desi Super Drinks, Batra provides personalized programs focusing on weight management, chronic condition care, women’s health, and lifestyle wellness.