Mealtimes are frustrating for Akecheta’s mother. Her 4-year-old son refuses to drink milk and begs instead for apple juice. She has tried to get him to drink other juices and to eat vitamin C-rich strawberries and oranges. However, Akecheta frequently complains “ that his stomach hurts” and cries until his mother gives in to his requests for apple juice. She is becoming extremely frustrated and has finally decided to take him to the local health clinic for advice.
After several visits and tests, the physician assistant determined that Akecheta is lactose intolerant and allergic to citrus fruits. Even small amounts of milk seem to upset his stomach and orange juice and strawberries cause him to break out in hives. Akecheta’s mother is concerned that may not be getting enough calcium and vitamin C and wonders if she should give him a daily vitamin tablet.
How can Choose My Plate help Akecheta’s mother make better choices for his meals?