Eating Behaviors and Body Weight in Preschool Children
Author Information
Author(s): Dubois Lise, Farmer Anna, Girard Manon, Peterson Kelly, Tatone-Tokuda Fabiola
Primary Institution: University of Ottawa
Hypothesis
A greater proportion of children who are picky eaters have a BMI below normal, while a greater proportion of children who are overeaters have BMI above normal.
Conclusion
The study found that picky eaters are more likely to be underweight, while overeaters are significantly more likely to be overweight at age 4.5.
Supporting Evidence
- 30% of children were reported as picky eaters.
- 39% of children were reported as overeaters.
- Picky eaters were twice as likely to be underweight.
- Overeaters were six times more likely to be overweight.
- Children from lower-income families were more likely to be picky eaters.
- Children from single-parent families were more likely to be overeaters.
- Low birth weight was associated with picky eating.
- Food insufficiency was linked to higher rates of overeating.
Takeaway
Some kids are picky eaters and some eat too much, and these habits can affect their weight as they grow up.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from a representative sample of preschoolers in Québec, using questionnaires and BMI measurements.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on self-reported data from mothers.
Limitations
The study relied on mothers' subjective reports of their children's eating behaviors.
Participant Demographics
Children born in 1998 in Québec, Canada, with a mix of socioeconomic backgrounds.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.4–4.2 for underweight, 95% CI 1.5–3.1 for at risk of overweight, 95% CI 1.9–4.5 for overweight
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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