Living with a Carb'O'Holic

Wow, this is a tough one for me. As you might know, I have a young family. My oldest is 4. And I would definitely have to say that he is addicted to carbs. He is a very fussy eater and would live off plain food, all day every day. Meat and vegetables are a real struggle. Every day is a challenge for him and for me. You name it I have tried to get him to try new food. Bribery - done, psychologist – done. He cooks with me nearly every day and smells and touches the most delicious food but won’t eat it.

Now in saying all of this, there are two issues that I have.

1. I used to be addicted to carbs. I used to have it in 3 meals a day. So for me being around carbs so much is really difficult. It is a temptation for me every day. I know if there were no carbs present, then the temptation wouldn’t be there. But if I removed it all from my house, he simply would eat nothing, which is obviously not an option. I have also found that when I am giving my boys dinner, if I am not eating with them, then I want to pick on something from his meal. I have learnt to have something while they are eating to tie me over and not snack on carbs that I know makes me feel rubbish. So I try to have cheese, nuts or vegetables at the same time.
2. I know he would feel so much better if he did not eat carbs. He always complains (and yes, I know 4 year olds complain a lot!!) that he is tired. My husband and I joke around saying that he is lazy. But I do really know that he is exhausted! I have had lots of talks to him about how food makes you fell. But guess what, last night for the first time while eating dinner, he tried some of my ceaser salad, and LOVED it! This is huge for him and for me, he asked to have it again for dinner tonight. I do know (or maybe hope is a better word) that he will try new foods and I can get him off some of the carbs and he will feel much better.

In the meantime, this is all a work in progress. For me with temptations, and for Eli with his food!