For parents of young children, mealtime battles are a familiar struggle, often accompanied by tears, frustration, and a refusal to eat certain foods. But a new study conducted by three leading UK universities suggests that children’s picky eating habits are largely influenced by genetics, not parenting.
The findings, published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, aim to relieve parents of the blame often associated with this behavior.
Genetic Factors Drive Picky Eating
The research, led by teams from University College London (UCL), King’s College London (KCL), and the University of Leeds, analyzed the eating behaviors of over 2,000 pairs of twins born in the UK in 2007. By comparing identical twins (who share 100% of their genetic material) with fraternal twins (who share only about 50%), researchers were able to isolate the influence of genetics from environmental factors.
The study revealed that identical twins showed much greater similarity in their picky eating habits compared to fraternal twins. This finding indicates that genetic factors play a significant role in a child’s reluctance to try new foods. Interestingly, the tendency to be picky peaks around age seven and gradually diminishes as children move into adolescence.
Environmental Influences Matter in Early Childhood
While genetics are a key driver of picky eating, the study also highlighted the impact of environmental factors, particularly in early childhood. The types of food offered at home and the settings in which meals are served can influence picky eating behavior during the toddler years. Early exposure to a variety of foods is crucial, as it can reduce the likelihood of these habits persisting into later childhood and adulthood.
A Common Struggle for Many Families
Abigail Pickard, a child development psychology researcher at Aston University, told CNN that picky eating is “fairly common” among children. Her recent research found that approximately 16% of children aged 3 to 5 in the UK exhibit picky eating behaviors.
To address this, Pickard recommends parents maintain a relaxed and positive atmosphere during meals. She advises against turning eating into a battle or using preferred foods as a reward for trying disliked ones, as this may create negative associations with certain foods. Instead, modeling healthy eating habits and offering repeated exposure to a variety of foods can encourage children to expand their palates over time.
No Need For Blame
Lead researcher Moritz Herle emphasized that picky eating often causes stress for both children and their families. The findings of this study offer reassurance to parents, showing that picky eating is largely determined by genetics rather than parenting practices. However, early intervention during the critical toddler years can still make a significant difference.
With this new understanding, parents can shift the focus from self-blame to fostering a supportive and stress-free environment, helping children navigate their preferences while promoting balanced eating habits.
