Gags at site of food

I have a 30 month old boy that is a very picky eater. Will only eat a select few foods; mostly are not very nutritious, but will eat some veggies & fruit. The problem lately is that he eats so little - even his favorites and will actually gag - and sometimes throw up - just by looking at his food. He refuses to eat some foods if he doesn't like the touch or texture of it, but he hasn't been eating lately and has thrown up several times in the past couple of weeks when I just put his food in front of him - whether it's his favorite cereal, mac & cheese or toast, he'll gag at it. Any suggestions? If it continues I think I should take him to the doctor, but am not sure if it's just an age issue.

[Renee Radenberg]

Children around 2 years old may become picky eaters. I suggest you give him nutrient dense drinks, such as, Pedisure or milkshakes. Milkshakes are a very good snack and children love to be a part of making them. All it takes is milk or soymilk, ice cream and some banana (any fruit). Whip it up in a blender and you have a drink packed with protein and calories (if used regular dairy products). Give him milkshake or Pedisure at the end of his meals so hopefully he may eat food first.
Mealtimes can be a battlefield when children do not have an interest to eating or eat very little. It becomes the battle of the wits between the child and the parents. Remember meals need to be joyous for you and your child. If he will not eat a certain food, do not make a fuss over it. Let it go and enjoy your meal. Eventually he will eat. If he does continue to vomit have him checked thoroughly by his MD.