"My daughter has always been a picky eater. Now at 15, she takes a long-acting stimulant and is still very thin. What can I do?"
by Larry Silver, M.D.
I have had some success by using behavioral therapy to get a child to expand her food list if she is willing to make the effort. However, the standard recommendation is, if your child stays on her height and weight growth curves, hang in there. With age, the problem will likely improve. Until then, use food supplements and vitamins to ensure adequate nutrition.
Also, her medication may be affecting her appetite. Note whether she is not only picky in choosing her foods, but also eats very little. Compare her appetite when she is on and off the medication. It might be necessary to try a different medication.
You say your daughter is very thin—if she falls below the range of average weights for her height, alert your family physician.