"Lucy has been a fantastic support to us with our son’s fussy eating as a result of multiple food allergies. Her expertise, passion and enthusiasm for helping children and parents is unbelievable."
— Tara Newsome, Google Review
The Children's Dietitian helps babies, toddlers and children enjoy food - and gives parents reassurance, confidence and joy in feeding them.
No one truly realises how emotionally draining, stressful and worrying it can be…
…until you're faced with your child struggling with their feeding and eating. It's every parent's fundamental instinct to want their child to thrive through nutrition and diet, so when – for whatever reason – this doesn't happen, it can feel incredibly difficult.
"Hello, I'm Lucy Upton. A qualified Paediatric Dietitian and Feeding Therapist.
"I started The Children's Dietitian to help people like you. We listen to you and your child. We support you and your child. And we find answers for you and your child”
"From navigating challenging allergies to supporting neurodivergent children, I help children overcome feeding challenges - and empower parents with the knowledge and confidence that will instil positive feeding, diet and nutrition foundations for life."
We are…
-
Focused & understanding
Although there are similarities across cases, we know that each family has its own unique story. From traumatic postnatal periods to lengthy battles trying to get support for your child's health condition, we are here to listen to your lived experience. Understanding your experience is often important to get your child - and you, as parents - the correct feeding, diet and nutrition support you need.
-
Non-judgemental & kind
Many parents feel the blame when their baby, toddler or child has feeding or dietary challenges. We are here to tell you that is very rarely the case - and we make you realise that the responsibility is not always with you. You are doing a fantastic job. We are by your side to support you - and never criticise you or make you feel guilty.
-
Goal-orientated & practical
What do you want to achieve by working with us? So often, parents are told to do x, y and z without a look at the bigger picture of their culture, background and personal goals - this is hugely overwhelming. We suggest a manageable plan that will fit comfortably into your life, helping you take little steps to where you want to be.
I cannot recommend Lucy enough, words just don't seem suitable! She is without a doubt the most kind and caring dietitian/professional that I have ever come across. Her knowledge has no end and her caring nature is what has really helped us. She has gone above and beyond for us and I think that is in her nature as a human being.
— Hannah Asper, Google Review
10 years of NHS experience
When you come to us, we know you might be feeling disillusioned by your experience so far.
We bring together the absolute best of 'both worlds' - private and NHS.
✔
We've seen (and solved) a lot
Our NHS clinic experience spans schools, specialist children's hospitals, GP surgeries and more - meaning we've seen a breadth of different patients with varied health conditions and from varied backgrounds.
✔
We know when you need more help
We've worked with doctors and nurses across different medical disciplines - from dermatologists to ENTs - in the NHS. We spot when something else is going on and know to bring in other health care professionals to support you.
✔
We're regulated & evidence-based
Everything we do is led by Lucy Upton, Registered Dietitian. Her NHS understanding and practice of regulation means you can have complete peace of mind in the utmost safety for your child.
We give you the space and time you need
Sit down, take a deep breath and tell us about your child, your feeding challenges and your story so far. We hear your struggle, and we support you. The NHS can't always give you this, we know that, and we're sorry that's the case. But we can - without any rush, urgency or long waiting times.
-
Master of Nutrition degree
Qualified Paediatric Dietitian and Feeding Therapist
SOS approach to feeding
Behaviour change training
4 certified post-graduate modules on Paediatric Nutrition & Dietetics.
-
The dietitians that will help you & your child
Our team
Hi! I'm Lucy. Founder & Qualified Paediatric Dietitian and Feeding Therapist
"I founded The Children's Dietitian to help the parents who are exasperated, and don't know where to turn - when it comes to their little one's feeding and eating.
After 10 years of NHS dietetic experience, I wanted to do more for these wonderful people. After all, parents are trying so hard - they are doing their very best. Yet they are hitting roadblocks that not only impact their child's feeding but impact the family's happiness and wellbeing as a whole.
Parents need more practical advice and genuine support when it comes to their child's feeding challenges. This is why I do what I do. And I love it - because seeing a mum's shoulder visibly relax as she feels empowered with new knowledge. Or seeing a dad laugh with delight as he sees his toddler try something new. Or seeing a child experience the joy of food for the first time, after such a negative experience previously - well, it's just incredible.
Food is fundamental for life, but it can also be a huge part of your happiness and wellbeing. Bringing that to families - even in the most challenging and complex scenarios - makes my heart sing."
Speaker & blogger
"Arming parents with accessible knowledge about their children's diet, nutrition and feeding is so important. That's why I love speaking and writing for varied media & PR outlets. I get my message out there and support families from all backgrounds."
Advisor & Advocate
"From Pampers to Tilda Rice, I work with high-profile brands that need a dietary expert on board to provide valuable, nutritional insight and translate the complicated scientific stuff into easily digestible information for consumers."
Hello, I'm Deirdre Fagan - Qualified Paediatric Dietitian
"From food allergies to plant-based diets, I love helping families simplify their feeding challenges - and come up with a plan that fits into their everyday lives.”