When it comes to food, what we learn as a child significantly shapes our eating behaviours into adulthood. We observe and absorb what is going on around us, what is offered to us, how food make us feel, and how food makes our role models feel. These experiences, habits, and attitudes developed as a child have a long-lasting impact on food relationships.
- Food preference and taste: The foods introduced and eaten during childhood contribute to the development of preferences and tastes that often continue into adulthood. If a child is exposed to a variety of nutritious (nutrient dense) foods, they are more likely to develop a preference for these foods and continue to choose them as they get older.
- Family and cultural influence: Family environment and cultural norms that surround food heavily influence our eating behaviours as a child. Families that prioritise ‘balanced meals’ with regular family mealtimes and emphasise the importance of healthy eating tend to raise children who adopt similar habits. Conversely, if unhealthy food choices and eating patterns are prevalent in the family, children are more likely to adopt those behaviours.
- Role modelling: Children learn by observing and imitating the behaviours of adults, particularly their parents or guardians. If parents demonstrate positive eating behaviours, such as consuming a variety of nutritious foods in appropriate portions, and displaying a healthy relationship with food, children are more likely to adopt those behaviours as well.
- Food rewards and emotional eating: The use of food as a reward or as a means of comfort during childhood can lead to emotional eating patterns in the future. If children are consistently rewarded with unhealthy foods or taught to seek solace in food during times of stress or emotional distress, they may start to rely on food as a coping mechanism leading to disordered eating. Interpret this with caution – it does not make you a bad parent if you reward a child with chocolate, but it is important that there is an emphasis on “chocolate is still just food” and look for other non-food rewards that offer the same comfort to a child.
- Food availability and accessibility: The types of foods that are readily available and accessible during childhood greatly influence eating behaviours. If nutrient dense options are limited and calorie dense, more palatable foods are more prevalent, children may develop a preference for those foods and continue to eat in abundance into adulthood.
- Nutrition education: Nutrition education during childhood can shape eating behaviours by providing children with knowledge about the importance of a balanced diet, the benefits of certain foods, and the impact of nutrition on their overall health. Good nutrition education can empower children to make informed food choices and develop healthier eating habits. Note: chose the source of education carefully – an Instagram influencer, celebrity and Netflix documentary are not reliable – trusting these sources and following their guidance can cause the development or enhancement of disordered eating.
It is important to note that while childhood experiences strongly influence eating behaviours, individuals can make conscious efforts to change their habits and make healthier choices later in life. With awareness, education, and support, it is possible to reshape eating behaviours and adopt a healthier relationship with food. If you’re struggling, complete the enquiry food and we can have a chat.
