close_game
close_game

Are you a picky eater? Study says, blame genetics

ByTapatrisha Das
Oct 06, 2024 06:42 PM IST

The study concluded that picky eating is influenced by certain genes in the body – however, it can be altered for better.

Are you a picky eater? Do you fuss over the food on the plate and seek only specific food items for your meal? Well, this might not be a phase at all. A recent study, led by Professor Clare Llewellyn, University College London states that the reason of fussy eating might be deep rooted into the genetics of a person.

The study states that the reason of fussy eating might be deep rooted into genetics. (Unsplash)
The study states that the reason of fussy eating might be deep rooted into genetics. (Unsplash)

Often toddlers have a taste for a small range of food and are not open to exploring new food items – parents believe that it is a temporary phase, but the recent study says that it might not be what seems like. According to the study, picky eating is influenced by certain genes in the body.

Zeynep Nas, a researcher at the University College London and lead author of the study, in a media release, said that according to the results of the study, fussy eating is not a temporary phase – in fact it is a persistent trajectory.

ALSO READ: Understanding fussy eating habits of kids: Expert shares inputs

Genetics or environmental factors: What influences fussy eating?

The study chose parents of twins to conduct the research – twins were chosen to identify if the fussy eating habit is based on genes or environmental factors. The study was conducted on parents with identical and non-identical twins within the age limit of 12 months to 13 years of age.

To understand the influence of genetics in fussy eating habits, the researchers compared the similarities of eating habits in identical twins who share 100 percent of their genes, and non-identical twins who share 50 percent of their genes.

ALSO READ: Is your child a picky eater? Here's what to do

Results of the study:

It was observed that non-identical twins demonstrated different eating behaviors than identical twins – further suggesting genetic influence. The influence of environmental factors in eating behaviours such as number of friends became more prominent between the age of seven to thirteen.

Can picky eating habits be altered?

While fussy eating has a huge genetic influence, it does not mean that the behavioural patterns cannot be changed for better. Parents can include a wide variety of cuisine and food items to influence the eating habits – in the later stages, peer groups also play a significant role in altering picky eating habits.

ALSO READ: Child nutrition: Remember these 5 vital healthy eating tips for children

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

Catch every big hit,...
See more
Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Thursday, November 07, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On
// // //