A new twin study finds that food fussiness is largely driven by genetic factors, with over 70% of influence coming from genes. In a recent study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry , researchers explored how food fussiness (FF) is influenced by genetic factors (‘nature’) and environmental contributors (‘nurture’). Their findings indicate that individual differences in FF exhibited by children across all ages are related to genetic factors.
However, fussy eating in toddlers may be influenced by environmental factors, making this time critical for interventions to address FF. Background Many children are picky about the texture or flavor of their food and may be reluctant to try unfamiliar foods, leading them to eat a limited number of items. FF often appears in toddlers, peaking between early and middle childhood and fading as children grow into adolescents.
Some experts believe it may be experienced by up to 50% of children. Children who do not grow out of fussy eating may suffer from several adverse psychological and physical health issues, including food-related anxiety, nutritional deficiencies, and faltering weight. As they grow into adulthood, they are at a higher risk of eating disorders.
The effects are also felt by their families, who may struggle with anxiety related to feeding their children and disrupted mealtimes. Understanding how nature and nurture interact to influence FF can help researchers understand how to manage these behavi.