Fussy Eating: A Genetic Influence Lasting from Toddlerhood to Early Adolescence
Have you ever wondered why some children are incredibly picky eaters, while others will try anything you put in front of them? According to a recent study supported by MQ at UCL, King’s College London, and the University of Leeds, fussy eating is mainly influenced by genes and is a stable trait that persists from toddlerhood to early adolescence.
The study, published in the Journal of Child Psychology & Psychiatry, examined data from parents of identical and non-identical twins in England and Wales from the ages of 16 months to 13 years. The research team found that levels of food fussiness were relatively stable during this period, peaking around the age of seven and then declining slightly.
Genetic differences were found to account for 60% of the variation in food fussiness at 16 months, increasing to 74% between the ages of three and 13. Environmental factors shared between twins, such as the foods eaten at home, played a significant role in toddlerhood, while unique environmental factors became more influential as the children got older.
Food fussiness is characterized by a limited range of foods consumed due to texture or taste preferences, or a reluctance to try new foods. Lead author Dr. Zeynep Nas from UCL emphasized that fussy eating is common among children and can be a source of anxiety for parents. However, the study’s findings suggest that fussy eating is largely innate and not a result of parenting.
The researchers analyzed data from the UCL-led Gemini study, which involved 1,927 sets of twins. Parents completed questionnaires about their children’s eating behaviors at various ages. By comparing fussy eating in identical and non-identical twin pairs, the team determined that genetic factors strongly influence food fussiness, with unique environmental factors becoming more significant as children grow older.
Professor Clare Llewellyn, a senior author of the study, noted that while genetic factors play a major role in fussy eating, environmental factors, such as family meal times, also contribute. Interventions to broaden children’s food preferences may be most effective in early childhood by repeatedly exposing them to a variety of foods.
Dr. Alison Fildes from the University of Leeds added that while fussy eating has a genetic component, it is not fixed, and parents can continue to encourage their children to eat a diverse range of foods as they grow. However, peer influence may become more significant during adolescence.
Although the study acknowledged some limitations, such as a predominantly white British sample, the researchers emphasized the importance of studying non-western populations to better understand the cultural influences on food choices and feeding practices.
In conclusion, fussy eating is a complex behavior influenced by both genetics and environment. By recognizing the genetic basis of food fussiness, parents can alleviate feelings of blame and better support their children in developing healthier eating habits.
This research, conducted by a collaborative team of experts, sheds light on the underlying factors contributing to fussy eating behavior and highlights the need for further investigation into this common childhood issue.
