Messy Bites

Marina Chaparro, RDN, CDCES
  • 5.0 (6)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to Messy Bites — where nutrition science meets real mom life, with a side of culture, chaos, and amor. I’m here to help you navigate the beautifully messy world of feeding kids—with science, love, and maybe a tortilla or two. I’m Marina Chaparro, a pediatric registered dietitian, diabetes educator, and mamá of two. From “Is my kid From “Is my kid eating enough protein?” to “Are baby carrots even safe?”, we dive into the messy side of feeding with real stories, expert guests, and tips rooted in science (not fear). Let’s make feeding our kids less about guilt—and more about connection!

  1. 12/16/2025

    Is Your Child Getting Enough Protein? The Facts Every Parent Should Know | EP 21

    This episode is sponsored by the National Pork Board. Is your child eating enough protein? 🤔 Protein is one of the most talked-about topics in kids nutrition, and many parents worry their child isn’t eating enough. In this episode of the Messy Bites Podcast, pediatric dietitian Marina Chaparro breaks down what children actually need, clears up common protein myths, and explains why most kids in the U.S. are already meeting their protein needs through everyday foods. We also explore why lean pork is a nutrient-dense, family-friendly protein option that supports growth, brain development, and chewing and speech development in young children. You’ll learn: How much protein children need at different ages Why protein has become such a hot topic in the U.S. Why toddlers and picky eaters often refuse meat The role of protein in growth, brain health, and development Key nutrients from animal foods, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 Practical tips for feeding protein to picky eaters Easy, kid-approved meal ideas, including Air Fryer Pork Meatballs A simple challenge to help parents feel confident about their child’s protein intake Hi, I’m Marina Chaparro, Registered Dietitian specializing in pediatric nutrition. My goal is to help parents raise confident, joyful eaters without stress or guilt. For more kids nutrition tips and family-friendly recipes, follow Marina on Instagram at @nutrichicos or visit nutrichicos.com.

    20 min

  2. 11/18/2025

    🎧 How to Raise Kids Who Are Connected to Their Roots: Family, Culture, and Food Stories 🌎❤️ | EP 20

    Join Marina Chaparro, Pediatric RD and host of Messy Bites, as she chats with experts Dr. Iliana Guerra Martinez (PhD, RDN, LD, CDCES) and Dr. Andie Lee Gonzalez (PhD, MPH, RDN, LD, FAND). Discover how cultural foods go beyond nutrition, they're about heritage, celebration, and family bonds, especially for Hispanic/Latina moms raising kids far from home. Learn to share traditions while prioritizing health, debunk myths, and embrace connection as the ultimate ingredient. Special thanks to sponsor Dairy Max and LAHIDAN for the free multicultural cookbook "Nuestros Sabores," featuring 28 authentic recipes from 9 cultures like Puerto Rico, Mexico, Colombia (and more!). Download it here: https://www.dairymax.org/sites/default/files/2025-05/Nuestros_Sabores.pdf In this episode we discuss:- Intro: Food as Culture & Love- Sponsor Shoutout & Cookbook- Guest Welcome- Connection's Power- Debunking Food Myths- Honoring Culture with Nutrition- Family Recipe Challenge Follow Marina: IG @nutrichicos | nutrichicos.com #KidsNutrition #FoodIsCulture #LatinaMoms #MessyBites #DairyMax #LAHIDAN

    47 min

  3. 11/11/2025

    25 Years a Type 1 Warrior: 6 Lessons for Every Family About Food, Balance, & Resilience 💥❤️ | EP 19

    In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Pediatric Registered Dietitian and fellow Type 1 Warrior Dr. Marina Chaparro reflects on 25 years since her Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis at age 16. Marina opens up about six powerful lessons T1D has taught her about food, nutrition, and living a balanced, guilt-free life. This episode isn’t just for T1D families—it’s for anyone ready to embrace progress over perfection, self-forgiveness, and the joy of connection and growth. Discover how to navigate life (and diabetes) with compassion, curiosity, and resilience. ✨ In this episode: Marina’s journey: 25 years as a T1D warrior Lessons learned about food, nutrition, and mindset Letting go of guilt and focusing on progress Embracing growth, empathy, and self-forgiveness The Messy Bites mission to raise a new generation of balanced eaters 💛 Let’s raise confident, joyful eaters together. ➡️ Follow Marina: @nutrichicos🌐 Learn more: www.nutrichicos.com #KidsNutrition #Parenting #HealthyEating #Type1Diabetes #MessyBitesPodcast

    22 min

  4. 10/28/2025

    Azúcar en Niños: ¿Prohibir o Permitir? | 🚫🍰 Cómo Crear una Relación Sana con los Dulces EP 18

    ¿Cuánta azúcar y cuántos postres debemos tener en casa para que nuestros hijos no se obsesionen? 🍭 Si te preocupa que se devoren todos los dulces en las fiestas o no sabes si tener galletas en la alacena es buena idea, este episodio es para ti. Hablamos sobre cómo fomentar una relación sana y positiva con la comida, basada en la ciencia y en estrategias prácticas que puedes aplicar desde hoy. Descubre:💡 Por qué los niños naturalmente buscan lo dulce.🧠 Qué dice la ciencia sobre el consumo de azúcar.🍪 Cuántos postres permitir en casa sin generar culpa ni prohibiciones.❤️ Cómo construir hábitos saludables que duren toda la vida. Conducido por Marina Chaparro, dietista registrada especializada en nutrición pediátrica.✨ Acompáñame para criar niños seguros, curiosos y felices con su alimentación. 🔗 Sígueme en Instagram: @nutrichicos🌐 Más recursos en nutrichicos.com #KidsNutrition #Parenting #HealthyEating #MessyMomHotline

    24 min

  5. 10/21/2025

    "Mom, Am I Fat?" How to Talk to Kids About Body Image | Dr. Whitney Caseres EP 17

    Kids are worrying about their bodies younger than ever — and in a world of social media filters and Ozempic headlines, it’s no wonder. So how can parents help children grow up confident in their own skin? In this episode, pediatrician and Modern Mommy Doc founder Dr. Whitney Caseres joins host Marina Chaparro, RD, to share a compassionate, practical roadmap for raising body-confident kids. Learn why even elementary schoolers are talking about being “thin,” the hidden ways parents can reinforce diet culture, and what to actually say when your child asks, “Am I fat?” Hi, I’m Marina Chaparro, Registered Dietitian and pediatric nutrition expert. Let’s raise confident, joyful eaters together! 👉 Follow me on Instagram: @nutrichicos🌐 Learn more: www.nutrichicos.com Tags: #KidsNutrition #Parenting #HealthyEating

    44 min

  6. 10/14/2025

    🤯 Probiotics and Kids: When, How, and If | Gut Health Expert Unpacks The Science | EP 16

    Disclosure: This Episode is Supported by Bio-K+ Are probiotics really necessary for kids? Parents hear a lot about gut health, but what’s fact and what’s hype? In this episode of The Messy Bite, I’m joined by gut health expert and registered dietitian Desiree Nielsen, RD to unpack the truth about probiotics for children. We explore what probiotics actually are, how they support immunity, and whether yogurt or kefir is enough—or if a supplement might help. You’ll learn the difference between probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics, plus fun and stress-free ways to include them in your kids’ meals. We also dive into the latest science on breast milk–derived probiotic strains and how they can support kids’ immune and digestive health. Don’t guess when it comes to your child’s gut health—get expert, evidence-based guidance! Follow Marina Chaparro, RD, CDEInstagram: @nutrichicosWebsite: nutrichicos.com Follow: Desiree Nielsen, RD Instagram: @Desireenielsenrd Additional Resources: https://isappscience.org/ Tags: #KidsNutrition #Parenting #HealthyEating

    57 min

  7. 10/07/2025

    The Secret to Feeding Siblings with Different Body Sizes ✨ | EP 15

    When siblings have different body sizes, mealtime can get tricky.Do you restrict food for one child and encourage more for the other? This common situation leaves many parents feeling frustrated, guilty, and unsure what’s “right.” In this empowering episode, we move away from focusing on body size—and the shame or secrecy that can come with it—and instead center on healthy habits that nurture every child at your table. You’ll learn how to approach these conversations with confidence and peace, using strategies that foster positive relationships with food for the whole family. In this episode, you’ll learn: 🧠 The real challenge: siblings with different body sizes and eating habits 🌱 How to shift from body talk to healthy habits for everyone 🍽️ How to use the Division of Responsibility as your foundation 🚫 Why restricting food or commenting on bodies causes harm 💬 Why you should never talk to your child about their weight 👩‍👧 How your own modeling matters more than any lecture 🥗 A simple challenge: model a balanced plate—without making it about the food Hi, I’m Marina Chaparro, a Registered Dietitian specializing in pediatric nutrition.Let’s raise confident, joyful eaters together! ➡️ Follow me on Instagram: @nutrichicos➡️ Visit my website: www.nutrichicos.com

    23 min

  8. 09/30/2025

    Why kids love Carbs❤️: The Surprising Science (It's Normal!) ✨ | EP 14

    Is your child obsessed with bread, pasta, and rice? 😩 Don't worry—it's totally normal! Discover the biological reasons behind kids' carb cravings in this episode of Messy Bites. We explore why carbs are essential for growing brains and development, and share stress-free strategies for parents to achieve balance. Carbs aren't the villain— they're vital fuel! What You'll Learn: Brain Boost: Kids' brains require up to twice the glucose of adults, making carbs a must-have energy source.Natural Instinct: Evolution wires children to crave sweet flavors for survival.Comfort Factor: Simple, "white foods" provide security amid toddler food fears.Pro Tip: Skip restrictions—instead, offer consistent, balanced options. Parents handle the "what" and "when"; kids decide the "if" and "how much." In this Episode we'll discuss: The Science 🧬: Carbs' Role in Brain HealthFact Check: Child vs. Adult Glucose DemandsEvolutionary Edge: Why Sweet WinsTexture & Safety: The "White Foods" AppealActionable Advice: Balancing Meals Without PressureMessy Bites Challenge: Your Weekly Parent Task Follow for more: Instagram @nutrichicos | Website: https://www.nutrichicos.com/

    17 min
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About

Welcome to Messy Bites — where nutrition science meets real mom life, with a side of culture, chaos, and amor. I’m here to help you navigate the beautifully messy world of feeding kids—with science, love, and maybe a tortilla or two. I’m Marina Chaparro, a pediatric registered dietitian, diabetes educator, and mamá of two. From “Is my kid From “Is my kid eating enough protein?” to “Are baby carrots even safe?”, we dive into the messy side of feeding with real stories, expert guests, and tips rooted in science (not fear). Let’s make feeding our kids less about guilt—and more about connection!

Information

  • Creator
    Marina Chaparro, RDN, CDCES
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Marina Chaparro, RDN, CDCES
  • Show Website
    Messy Bites