Genetics, Not Parenting, Determines if Your Child is a Picky Eater: Study Reveals

A new study has found that genetics play a major role in determining whether children are picky eaters, rather than their environment or parenting.
Genetic Factors vs Environment
Researchers conducted a study on families with sets of identical or non-identical twins and found that genetic factors accounted for a significant portion of food fussiness in children. Comparing the eating behaviors of identical and non-identical twins, the team discovered that genetics played a larger role in food fussiness, with at least 60 percent of differences at 16 months old and up to 74 percent between ages 3 and 13.
Environmental Influences
As children grew older, unique environmental factors became more important, with around 25 percent influence between ages 7 and 13. Shared environmental influences were significant only in very young children. Senior author Dr Clare Llewellyn highlighted that interventions to help children eat a wider range of foods, such as offering a variety of fruits and vegetables, may be most effective in the early years.
Not a Result of Parenting
Lead author Dr Zeynep Nas emphasized that fussy eating is not solely a result of parenting and can follow a persistent trajectory. The study suggested that while pickiness can persist beyond childhood, it doesn't mean it's fixed for life. Parents are advised to continue supporting their children to eat a variety of foods throughout childhood and adolescence.
Future Research and Recommendations
The study acknowledged limitations such as sample sizes and socioeconomic bias, and encouraged future research to consider cultural practices and food security levels beyond the Western context. Medical advice recommends a calm approach to picky eating, with patience, varied cooking methods, and reduced food focus for better outcomes. The findings were published in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.