Parental influence on eating behavior: conception to adolescence

Lifetime history of depression and eating behaviours: a co-twin control study of the TwinsUK registry

BACKGROUND

The extent to which depression impacts eating behaviours, and the mechanisms underpinning their relationship are unclear. We aim to investigate the relationship between depression diagnosis and eating behaviours.

METHODS

We analysed data from 1426 participants of the twins UK registry, which includes 722 monozygotic (MZ) and 702 dizygotic (DZ) twins. Eating behaviours were measured using the three-factor eating questionnaire while depression and antidepressant usage were self-reported. Co-twin control design was used to model the association between depression and eating. Sensitivity tests were implemented to exclude those using antidepressants.

RESULTS

The heritability estimates for eating behaviours were between 35 and 41 %. Twins with a history of depression had higher scores on the emotional (d = -0.31) and constrained eating (d = -0.18). The intraclass correlations revealed a higher covariation in MZ compared to DZ twins. A moderate relationship was observed between lifetime depression and uncontrolled (β = 0.61, 95 % CI [0.17; 1.06]), emotional (β = 0.38, 95 % CI [0.22; 0.55]) and restrained eating (β = 0.43, 95 % CI [0.10; 0.77]). After removing those on antidepressants (n = 195), the relationship between eating and depression attenuated, indicating a potential influence of antidepressants in this association.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest the association between depression and eating can be partly explained by pre-existing genetic and environmental vulnerabilities. Understanding the mechanisms underlying this relationship could guide the development of effective management strategies, including personalized nutrition plans, integrated mental and dietary care, and regular monitoring to mitigate the risk of maladaptive eating behaviours and eating disorders.

Engaging Parents With Child Nutrition and Feeding Information on Facebook: A Retrospective Content Analysis

Online social media platforms are potentially useful for disseminating public health interventions, especially to parents who seek child nutrition information online. To optimize social media interventions, health professionals need to understand how to reach and engage the target audience. The PICNIC peer-education nutrition program uses social media to teach parents about feeding practices which influence children's eating behaviors. The aim of this study was to describe social media post types, content, and communication strategies in the PICNIC program, and identify the characteristics that determined post performance. PICNIC Facebook Page intervention posts (n = 436) from Jan-2020 to Apr-2022 were evaluated using an iterative coding process with an adapted coding framework. Associations between coded post characteristics and organic reach (number of users) and user engagement (comments/shares/reactions/clicks) were explored using the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression method in R. Photo posts reached more users than video posts, but videos drew 48% more silent engagement (clicks) than photos. Original content was associated with higher reach and more engagements than reported/shared posts. Post characteristics with positive influence on engagement included instructive ("how-to") communication techniques and feeding messages about food restriction and fussy eating. In conclusion, parents in an online child feeding program engaged more with social media posts that were instructive or in video format, with content relating to food restriction or fussy eating. Social media posts used in feeding interventions should include a variety of formats to optimize reach, balanced with engaging content useful to the specific target audience.

Age-Dependent Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Role of Key Bacterial Ratios

Background/Objectives: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a wide-ranging impact on individuals' quality of life and development, and there is a critical need for greater awareness, early intervention, and comprehensive support strategies to effectively address the unique needs of those affected by ASD. Recent studies highlight the gut microbiome's potential role in modulating ASD symptoms via the gut-brain axis, but specific microbial biomarkers remain unclear. This study aims to investigate differences in gut microbiota composition between ASD patients and neurotypical controls in a novel approach, specifically assessing ratios of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B), Actinobacteria/Proteobacteria (A/P), and Prevotella/Bacteroides (P/B) as potential biomarkers. Methods: We analyzed gut microbiome samples from 302 Bulgarian children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD (aged 2-19 years). Microbial ratios (F/B, A/P, and P/B) were calculated and compared against previously reported reference meta-analytic means from European neurotypical populations. The statistical significance of deviations was assessed using parametric (t-tests), non-parametric (Wilcoxon signed-rank tests), and proportion-based (binomial tests) methods. Effect sizes were quantified using Cohen's d. Significant differences between ASD cases and neurotypical reference values were observed across several age groups. Results: Notably, children with ASD demonstrated significantly lower F/B and A/P ratios, with the youngest cohort (0-4 years) exhibiting the greatest differences. Deviations in the P/B ratio varied across age groups, with a significant elevation in the oldest group (≥10 years). Collectively, ASD cases consistently exhibited microbiota profiles indicative of dysbiosis. Conclusions: Our findings support gut microbiome dysbiosis as a potential biomarker for ASD, highlighting significantly altered bacterial ratios compared to neurotypical controls. These microbiome shifts could reflect early-life disruptions influencing neurodevelopment. Future studies should adopt longitudinal and mechanistic approaches to elucidate causal relationships and evaluate therapeutic microbiome modulation strategies.

Association between food parenting practices and adulthood portion size selection to avoid overeating among Japanese: The mediating role of health and food waste concern

BACKGROUND

Food parenting practices (FPPs) play a crucial role in shaping children's adulthood-portion size selection to avoid overeating (PSO), which are integral in the prevention of obesity, reducing overproduction, and reducing food waste. Aim: This study aimed to describe the relationship between several FPPs and implementation of PSO in adulthood and the mediating role of interest in health (IH) in adulthood and attitude toward food waste (AFW) in the above-mentioned association among Japanese adults. Methods: A total of 1707 Japanese adults who responded to an anonymous web-based questionnaire survey in February 2023 were included in the analysis (women: n = 865, 50.7%). Data on FPPs (nine items), PSO (eight items), IH (five items), AFW (three items), and demographic and anthropometric data were collected. Nine mediation models for each FPP were created, and mediation analysis with percentile-corrected bootstrap confidence intervals adjusted for demographic and anthropometric data was performed to examine the direct and mediation effects. Results: Significant direct effects were observed for all nine models (B = 0.33-0.74, p < 0.001). In addition, partial mediation was established in all the models without AFW for one FPP. Adulthood IH (indirect effect-adjusted model: B = 0.06-0.13) and AFW (B = -0.03-0.06, except for one FPP model) mediated the association between FPPs and adult PSO. The indirect effects accounted for 11.4-22.3% (IH) and 3.6-5.6% (AFW) of the total effects, respectively. Conclusion: The results provide new insights for the establishment of appropriate FPPs to promote PSO. This study suggests the potential impact of FPPs on PSO in adulthood.

Neighbourhood, school and home food environment associations with dietary behaviours in Hong Kong adolescents: the iHealth study

This study is the first to examine whether neighbourhood, school and home food environments were associated with dietary behaviours in Hong Kong adolescents; and whether off-campus lunch school policy, bringing lunch from home and parental rules for eating behaviours moderated the associations. We used data from the international Healthy environments and active living in teenagers - (Hong Kong) [iHealt(H)] study. Participants were healthy adolescents aged 11-18 years (N = 1299; Mage = 14.7 years; 57 % girls) and their parent/primary caregivers. Participants completed surveys with validated scales to assess dietary behaviours and perceived food environments. The Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes and Geographic Information Systems data and software were used to objectively assess food environments. A higher number of bakeries, coffee shops, cafes and convenience stores in the neighbourhood was associated with higher consumption of vegetables and lower consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks in adolescents. Adolescents who frequently brought lunch from home to school consumed fatty foods and sugar-sweetened drinks less frequently and were more likely to eat fruits and vegetables. Greater availability of unhealthy food outlets at the school was associated with higher consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks, whereas more restaurants around the school was associated with higher consumption of fruits and vegetables. Home-made lunches and restrictive parental eating rules moderated the effects of food environments on adolescents' dietary behaviours. All food environmental contexts were associated with Hong Kong adolescents' dietary behaviours; however, the home and school environment appeared to be the most influential and should be targeted in public health interventions.

Effectiveness of a social cognitive theory and family system theory-based intervention in improving eating behaviors in preschool children

BACKGROUND

Eating behaviors in early childhood are crucial for long-term health and weight management. Behavioral interventions grounded in social and family dynamics may play a pivotal role in improving these habits. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) and Family System Theory (FST)-based intervention in modifying eating behaviors in preschool children.

METHODS

An experimental study was conducted from September 2022 to July 2023 with 120 preschool children in Behbahan City, Iran. Participants were selected using a multi-stage random sampling method. The intervention was delivered to mothers over six educational sessions, focusing on parenting styles and behavior modification strategies. The Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ) was administered at baseline, three months, and six months post-intervention. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24.

RESULTS

In the intervention group, Satiety Responsiveness (SR) and Slowness in Eating (SE) scores increased by 0.60 and 0.14, respectively, while Desire to Drink (DD), Emotional Over-Eating (EOE), Enjoyment of Food (EF), and Food Responsiveness (FR) decreased by 2.20, 0.85, 0.22, and 0.56 points, respectively. Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed significant differences in SR, DD, and FR across time points (p < 0.05), suggesting a sustained effect of the intervention.

CONCLUSION

A family-focused intervention integrating SCT and FST can effectively improve eating behaviors in preschool children by empowering mothers with behavioral and parenting strategies. These findings support the importance of early, structured interventions in preventing childhood obesity.

Breastfeeding Duration, Diet, and Sports Engagement in Immigrant Children: A Quantitative Study in the Lisbon Region, Portugal

Background: Being breastfed, following a healthy diet and staying active during childhood shape health trajectories across the life course, promoting long-term well-being. Despite the growing immigrant child population in Portugal, evidence on these behaviours, particularly among preschool-aged children, remains limited. In this context, this study examines the associations between migrant status and breastfeeding patterns, fruit and vegetable consumption, and participation in sports among children living in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. Methods: A cross-sectional study nested within a cross-sequential cohort was carried out in the Lisbon region between May 2022 and April 2024. Approximately 760 children (49.4% immigrants) born in 2018 and 2020 were enrolled in the study. Data were collected through a face-to-face interview with parents, using a structured questionnaire with information on socioeconomic variables, migration history, breastfeeding habits, and children's diet (fruit and vegetable consumption) and physical activity. We used parametric and non-parametric tests to compare migrant and non-migrant children. To quantify factors associated with the main outcomes, we estimated a logistic regression model and calculated crude and adjusted odds ratios and their respective 95%CI. Results: Immigrant children were disproportionately represented in socioeconomically disadvantaged families. Breastfeeding initiation rates were higher among immigrant mothers (96.3% vs. 87.6%, p < 0.001). Additionally, immigrant mothers had a longer median duration of any breastfeeding (14 vs. 8 months, p < 0.001) and of exclusive breastfeeding (6 vs. 4 months, p < 0.001). Immigrant children had significantly lower odds of consuming three or more portions of fruit (aOR = 0.700; 95%CI: 0.511-0.959; p = 0.027) and two or more portions of vegetables per day (aOR = 0.489; 95%CI: 0.350-0.684; p < 0.001) compared with non-immigrant children. They were also twice as likely to not engage in sports (aOR = 2.185; 95%CI: 1.512-3.158; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Breastfeeding was better implemented in immigrant children. The findings highlight the need to address social determinants of health and the challenges faced by immigrant families in promoting a balanced diet and sports participation for their children. Multisectoral, culturally appropriate interventions that sustain and promote good breastfeeding practices, improve access to healthy food, and encourage sports are crucial to reducing health inequalities.

One-year post-intervention effectiveness of a proportionate universal intervention in reducing social inequalities of weight status among adolescents

INTRODUCTION

The effectiveness of interventions in reducing social inequalities of weight status among adolescents is challenging. Studies reporting post-intervention effectiveness are scarce. We aimed to evaluate the 1-year post-intervention effectiveness of PRALIMAP-INÈS (PRomotion de l'ALIMentation et de l'Activité Physique - INÉgalité de Santé) trial.

METHODS

Participants of the PRALIMAP-INÈS trial, a proportionate universal intervention of 1-year in 11-13 years-old children recruited in 35 schools of Nord-Est France which compared socially advantaged to less advantaged children, who had completed data at 1-year (T1) and 2-year follow-up visit (T2=1-year post-intervention) were included. The first group received a standard lifestyle intervention (advantaged with standard care [A.S]) and the second a reinforced lifestyle intervention (less advantaged with standard and strengthened care [LA.S.S]). This proportionate intervention led to similar benefit in the two groups after 1-year of intervention. The present work looked at the retention effect of this proportionate intervention 1-year after the end of the lifestyle program. The main outcome was the change in body mass index z-score (BMIz) from T1 to T2. Between-group outcomes changes analysis involved the t test for equivalence using a Two One-Side Test procedure and hierarchical mixed models. Multiple imputation was performed to handle missing data.

RESULTS

This study included 505 adolescents (338 in A.S and 167 in LA.S.S groups) of mean age: 15.2±0.7 years. The equivalence was evidenced for BMIz (0.01[90% confidence interval, -0.05 to 0.07]), BMI (0.02[-0.26 to 0.29]), BMI percent of the 95th percentile of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) growth chart reference (0.01[-0.94 to 0.96]), BMI minus 95th Percentile of CDC growth chart reference (0.01[-0.26 to 0.29]) and proportion of obesity (-0.01[-0.04 to 0.04]) from T1 to T2 between LA.S.S and A.S. Nevertheless, we did not show significant difference between the two groups for nutrition behaviors outcomes at 1-year post-intervention.

CONCLUSION

At 1-year post-intervention, we showed equivalence in adolescents' weight status changes whatever the socioeconomic class. Therefore, this proportionate universal intervention applied to adolescents in a school setting seems effective to prevent the worsening of the social inequalities of weight status in response to a lifestyle intervention at 1-year.

A Narrative Review of Multifactorial Determinants of Childhood Eating Behaviors: Insights and Interventions Using the Social Ecological Model

Background/Objectives: Childhood eating behaviors result from a complex interplay of familial, social, and environmental factors, influenced by socioeconomic and cultural contexts. These behaviors impact dietary habits, nutritional status, and long-term health. Using the Social Ecological Model (SEM), this narrative review synthesizes evidence on key determinants of childhood eating behaviors and proposes a framework for multi-level interventions. Methods: A structured literature search was conducted across PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL, focusing on studies published between January 2014 and September 2024. Keywords related to childhood eating behaviors, familial determinants, and social influences were used to identify relevant studies. Inclusion criteria centered on empirical research examining how social and familial factors impact childhood eating behaviors within the SEM framework. Results: The review highlights critical determinants, including parental feeding practices, home food environments, peer influences, screen time, school meal programs, and socioeconomic disparities. These factors interact across multiple levels, emphasizing the importance of holistic interventions that target both individual behaviors and broader systemic influences. Conclusions: Addressing childhood eating behaviors requires a multi-level approach that integrates caregiver education, peer-led interventions, improved food environments, and supportive policies. Healthcare providers and policymakers play a crucial role in implementing strategies that foster healthier dietary behaviors and mitigate childhood obesity risks.

Parent/Caregiver Perceptions of the Good Food for Learning Universal School Lunch Program in Canada

The Good Food for Learning universal school lunch program is a two-year population health intervention research study in two elementary schools in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to implement and evaluate a promising model for school food programs (SFPs) in Canada. A survey was administered to understand parent/caregivers' perceptions of the free, universal school lunch program, participation, and willingness to pay for a future school lunch program (n = 113). A healthy and cost-free lunch were the top two benefits recognized by parents/caregivers. The survey estimated student participation in the program at 77%. For future program planning, universal and cost-free were favoured program aspects to continue. In addition, 68% of parents/caregivers demonstrated a willingness to pay $2.00 per child per lunch. Understanding parental/caregiver expectations and attitudes towards SFPs can inform the planning, decision-making, and sustainability for future models and a national school food policy in Canada.

Consumer Perceptions of Artificial Sweeteners in Food Products, Consumption Frequency, and Body Mass Index: A Multivariate Analysis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Artificial sweeteners are commonly used food additives that provide sweetness without calories. Once considered harmless due to their lack of metabolism, recent studies suggest that they may have unintended effects, potentially stimulating appetite and increasing food intake, leading to weight gain. This study aimed to assess consumer perceptions of artificial sweeteners in food, examine consumption frequencies of products containing them, and explore their potential influence on body mass index.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using two voluntary and anonymous surveys administered via Google Forms.

RESULTS

The study included 649 participants: 324 parents of preschool and school-aged children and 325 university and secondary school students. A substantial proportion of parents (59.3%) recognized artificial sweeteners as common sugar substitutes in beverages like juices, soft drinks, and protein drinks. Awareness was notably higher among students (88.9%). While most participants held a negative attitude toward artificial sweeteners, their awareness and engagement with food label reading were low. Multivariate linear regression identified significant associations: Male gender (β = 1.17, p < 0.001) and older age (β = 0.42, p < 0.001) were associated with higher BMI. Additionally, participants who rarely or never consumed carbonated soft drinks had a lower BMI (β = -1.48, p = 0.039), while those who occasionally consumed snacks had a higher BMI (β = 0.51, p = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

This research underscores the urgent need for public health initiatives addressing misconceptions, raising food label reading practices, while encouraging healthier consumption habits through educational campaigns. Additionally, the study's insights will help assess the potential cumulative health impacts of artificial sweetener intake.

Seeing is believing: How front-of-pack food imagery shapes parents' perceptions of child-oriented snack foods

Child-oriented snack foods often display front-of-pack images suggesting they are natural or wholesome, yet many of these products are ultra-processed and nutrient poor. This study investigated parent's perceptions in response to common forms of front-of-pack food imagery on child-orientated snacks. An online experiment comprising four between-subjects food image conditions (no image; food photo; food cartoon; cartoon of children gardening) and two within-subjects snack type conditions (fruit; vegetable) was conducted with N = 800 Australian adult parents/guardians of children aged 4-10 years. Participants viewed packaged snacks then rated them on visual appeal, perceived healthfulness, suitability for their child, and purchase intentions. For each outcome, 4 (between-subjects) x 2 (within-subjects) mixed ANOVAs were performed, with significant main effects explored using post-hoc pairwise t-tests with Bonferroni adjustment. The extent to which perception metrics predicted purchase intention within each condition was examined using multiple regression analyses. Participants perceived snacks displaying food photographs as healthier compared to all other conditions. When children's snacks displayed food photos, participants perceived the snack as more suitable for their child and showed stronger intentions to purchase the product than when cartoon children were displayed. Participants preferred fruit over vegetable snacks across all metrics, particularly when the picture was photorealistic. Visual appeal was the only perception metric that consistently predicted purchase intention across conditions. Findings provide clear evidence that parent's perceptions and purchase intentions towards children's snack foods are enhanced by pictures displayed on the packaging. Policy to regulate food packaging should require that foods depicted on the packaging accurately reflect product ingredients, particularly where whole foods are represented, and the actual ingredients are highly processed and no longer provide the nutrition of whole foods.

A recipe for health: A descriptive qualitative study examining paternal influence and the establishment of children's healthy eating habits in Singapore

This study aimed to explore Singaporean fathers' perceived influence over their children's eating habits. A descriptive qualitative study design was used. Convenience sampling was used to recruit fathers of children aged 3-21 years old from a general paediatric outpatient clinic in a tertiary public hospital. Data were collected from September 2023 to January 2024. Fifteen fathers were interviewed until data saturation. A semi-structured interview guide was used to conduct virtual interviews and thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Three themes and nine subthemes were identified. The three themes were: (1) laying a good foundation, (2) circumstances shaping perspectives, and (3) agents of future behavioural change. Fathers perceived themselves as influencing their children's eating habits by laying a good foundation and that their perspectives were influenced by their circumstances such as lack of time and gender roles. Fathers identified elements that could initiate their future behaviour change to better influence their children's eating habits. These findings provide nuanced insights into paternal perceptions, for the future development of father-specific interventions to enhance their influence in promoting good eating habits among their children. Healthcare professionals can encourage paternal involvement through providing health education on healthy nutrition for their children to both mothers and fathers in the clinical setting. Healthcare professionals can also organize hands-on events that teach about food exploration and nutrition for fathers to take part in with their children.

Effect of Choice of Flavor of Fluoride Varnish on Behavior in Dental Visits in Schoolchildren

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of choosing the taste of a fluoride varnish on the behavior and acceptance of the children during the dental visit.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This single-blinded, randomized controlled trial (NCT05285228) involved 70 healthy children aged 5-10 years who presented for a dental recall visit including the indication of an application of fluoride varnish to the specialized pediatric university dental service. The control group received the fluoride varnish (Profluorid varnish, VOCO Germany) with an allocated taste, whereas the test group had to choose the taste of the fluoride varnish just before the dental check-up.

RESULTS

The vast majority of the children (n = 53, 75.7%) felt happy/very happy (Facial image scale) regarding the taste of the fluoride varnish, with no significant difference between both groups (p = 0.188). Dental behavior (Frankl behavior rating scale) was assessed generally as positive/definitely positive (n = 58, 82.2%). Interestingly, children with a history of previous negative dental behavior in the test group showed a tendency of more positive behavior than in the control group (66.6% vs. 33.4%, p = 0.244).

CONCLUSION

Sense of control performed via choosing the flavor of the fluoride varnish increases the chance for positive behavior during the dental visit, especially in children with a history of negative dental behavior. Concurrently, it improves the child's taste acceptance, which is important for dental caries prevention.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study protocol was registered on Cli ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05285228).

Understanding Caregivers' Influence on Preschoolers' Eating Behaviors: An Integrative Review Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Primary caregivers of children play a significant role in developing their dietary behaviors. Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this integrative review aimed to synthesize studies examining how personal and household characteristics, caregivers' dietary beliefs, intentions, and feeding practices influence the eating behaviors of preschool-aged children (2-5 years).

METHODS

PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles published between January 2014 and September 2024. The expanded PRISMA 2020 checklist was used to guide the literature search and report the results. The Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice (JHNEBP) was also used to evaluate the quality of the selected articles.

RESULTS

A total of 10 studies were included in the final analysis. The studies revealed that preschoolers' eating behaviors were significantly influenced by personal characteristics (e.g., caregivers' BMI, and weight perceptions) and household factors (e.g., food availability). Additionally, caregivers' feeding practices, such as restriction, modeling, and permissiveness, played a pivotal role in shaping children's eating habits. Although caregivers expressed intentions to provide a healthy diet, they often faced barriers, including conflicting work schedules, financial constraints, and logistical challenges, which impeded their ability to consistently promote healthy eating behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

Caregivers' beliefs, intentions, and feeding practices are pivotal in shaping preschoolers' eating behaviors. However, the limited available literature and the underexplored mechanisms linking these factors make it challenging to draw solid conclusions. Future research should address these gaps and consider integrating caregiver-focused factors into tailored interventions to promote healthier eating habits in preschool-aged children. This can aid healthcare professionals in designing culturally and contextually sensitive strategies for improving childhood nutrition.

Maternal Well-Being and Child Appetitive Traits at 5 Years Old: Findings from the ROLO Longitudinal Birth Cohort Study

Background: Maternal depression has been linked with increased risk of childhood obesity. Furthermore, maternal negative affectivity in early childhood has been associated with food fussiness. We explored the relationship between longitudinal maternal well-being mid-pregnancy, at 2 years and 5 years postpartum and children's appetitive traits at 5 years of age. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of the ROLO (randomized control trial of low glycemic diet in pregnancy) longitudinal birth cohort study including pregnancy (n = 279), 2 years (n = 168), and 5 years (n = 295) postpartum. Maternal well-being was measured using the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index. Children's appetitive traits were measured at 5 years of age using the Children's Eating Behavior Questionnaire. Bivariate correlation and then linear regression, adjusted for potential confounders, were used to determine relationships between maternal well-being at each timepoint and offspring's appetitive traits at 5 years old. Results: Mean maternal well-being was higher at 5 years postpartum (63.3%) than mid-pregnancy (58.2%) or at 2 years postpartum (61.0%) (p = 0.001). No relationships were observed between maternal well-being mid-pregnancy and child's appetitive traits at 5 years. In adjusted regression, at 2 years postpartum, maternal well-being was negatively associated with "Emotional Overeating" (B = -0.029, p = 0.024), "Satiety Responsiveness" (B = -0.040, p = 0.014), "Slowness Eating" (B = -0.072, p = <0.001), and "Emotional Undereating" (B = -0.054, p = 0.010) and positively associated with "Enjoyment of Food" (B = 0.050, p = 0.007). Maternal well-being at 5 years postpartum was negatively associated with "Satiety Responsiveness" (B = -0.025, p = 0.033) and "Slowness Eating" (B = -0.031, p = 0.024). Conclusion: Maternal well-being in early childhood may influence children's appetitive traits; however, further research is required to fully explore this relationship.

Maternal Perception and Childhood Overweight: Examining Parenting Styles and Eating Behaviors Among Preschoolers: A Cross-Sectional Study from Samsun, Türkiye

BACKGROUND

Accurate maternal perceptions of children's weight status are crucial for early childhood obesity prevention, with evidence suggesting that maternal misperception may delay timely interventions. This study investigated the accuracy of maternal perceptions of child weight and examined associations with parenting styles and children's eating behaviors and demographic factors among preschool-aged children in Samsun, Türkiye.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 318 mother-child pairs recruited from preschools in socio-economically diverse areas of Samsun. Maternal perceptions of child weight status were assessed using a visual scale, while children's anthropometric measurements (height, weight) were recorded to calculate BMI-for-age Z-scores. Parenting styles and children's eating behaviors were evaluated using the Parental Attitude Scale (PAS) and the Children's Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ), respectively. Data analysis involved chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression to explore associations between maternal perception accuracy, parenting styles, and children's eating behaviors.

RESULTS

Among 318 mother-child pairs, 59.7% underestimated their child's weight status, with this figure being 84.9% among overweight children. Authoritative parenting was the most common style (78%); no significant association was found between parenting style and maternal perception accuracy. Accurate estimators showed significantly higher scores for food responsiveness (median: 9 (7-12), p = 0.028) and the enjoyment of food (mean: 16.3 ± 4.8, p = 0.003), whereas underestimators scored higher for satiety responsiveness (mean: 23.2 ± 5.7, p = 0.042) and slowness in eating (mean: 11.2 ± 4.2, p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal underestimations of child weight are prevalent, particularly for overweight children, are associated with children's specific eating behaviors. Targeted educational interventions focusing on improving maternal awareness and promoting responsive feeding practices are essential to combat childhood obesity.

Parental depression and emotional feeding practices are associated with a tendency towards overeating in preadolescents

Background

Children's eating behaviors, including a tendency towards overeating, are strongly influenced by the family. Children prone to overeating are at a high risk of excessive weight gain, which can lead to further adverse health outcomes. Therefore, identifying factors that contribute to overeating is crucial for promoting healthy weight development. Given the inconsistencies in previous research, mostly involving young children, we investigated the child and parental characteristics associated with overeating in preadolescence.

Methods

The cross-sectional study included 5,973 preadolescents aged 9-12 years from the Finnish Health in Teens (Fin-HIT) cohort. A tendency towards overeating was based on a parent-reported question. We utilized extensive parent questionnaire and Medical Birth Register data, and used ordinal and stepwise logistic regression to identify the independent determinants of overeating.

Results

The proportion of preadolescents with a parent-reported tendency towards overeating was 10% (n = 606). In the multivariable model, boys had higher odds of overeating (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.06-1.58) compared with girls. Preadolescents with overweight and obesity had 9- and 30-fold odds (95% CI 7.31-11.29 and 20.07-44.54, respectively) of overeating compared with healthy-weight preadolescents. Furthermore, parental depression and emotional feeding increased the odds of overeating in the preadolescent (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.08-2.02 and OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.03-1.57).

Conclusion

Along with child weight status and sex, parental depression and emotional feeding were independently associated with overeating in preadolescence. Therefore, it is important to support parents' mental health and their healthy feeding practices. Our findings can be targeted to manage overeating and prevent overweight in children and adolescents.

Contributions of subjective status to eating behaviors, obesity, and metabolic health across development

Subjective status is the evaluation of one's social or socioeconomic status relative to others. Lower subjective status has been associated with risk of overweight/obesity, poorer metabolic health, and obesogenic food preferences and eating behaviors. However, these findings are predominantly based on studies of adolescents and young adults. This indicates major gaps in knowledge and application of this social determinant of obesity and metabolic health, given that perceived status develops throughout the life course along with food environments and eating habits. Here, we review the relationships that subjective status shares with the outcomes of eating behaviors, obesity, and metabolic health across milestones and periods of development: during the prenatal period, as caregivers who feed children, during childhood (prior to age 10) and from adolescence into emerging adulthood (until mid-20's). For each developmental period, we explore why the period critically contributes to these outcomes and how subjective status may affect eating behaviors and metabolic health. We propose that subjective status contributes to eating/feeding behaviors and metabolic health both within and across developmental periods, such that the effect of low subjective status at an earlier period may contribute to obesogenic eating behaviors and metabolic health in later developmental periods and intergenerationally. The influence of low subjective status on higher body weight may also threaten subjective status later in development through heightened vulnerability to social stressors, such as weight-based stigma. Overall, subjective status may be a broadly influential factor to consider when examining social determinants of obesity and metabolic health across development.

Responsive feeding practices among Arabic and Mongolian speaking migrant mothers in Australia: A qualitative study

Establishing healthy feeding habits during infancy is crucial for optimal growth. However, certain parental feeding and cultural practices might hinder the development of children's healthy eating behaviours. This research explored responsive feeding practices among migrant mothers in Australia. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted in their native language with 20 Arabic and 20 Mongolian-speaking migrant mothers with children under 2 years old or currently pregnant. Thematic analysis was conducted using the framework method. Both cultural groups followed a variety of feeding practices, including on demand responsive feeding or structured schedules. Arabic-speaking mothers tended to demonstrate responsive feeding practices more frequently than Mongolian-speaking mothers, except for those using formula feeding, who consistently followed a fixed feeding routine. When introducing solid foods, mothers from both groups often overlooked their babies' hunger and satiety cues, frequently pressuring their children to finish their entire plate. One cited reason for this was the challenge parents faced in identifying such cues. Arabic-speaking mothers often supplemented with formula top-ups after introducing solid foods, due to the belief that breast milk or solid foods alone might not sufficiently nourish their infants. Additionally, some Arabic-speaking mothers used food-based rewards to encourage eating. Mongolian mothers expressed a cultural preference for chubby babies, a potential reason why they may have been inclined to pressure-feed their children. Moreover, both groups reported using digital devices to distract their children during meals. This study highlights the necessity of tailoring future resources and services related to responsive feeding practices to accommodate diverse literacy levels and cultural backgrounds.

Title: A Qualitative Systematic Review of Parental Perceptions, Motivators, and Barriers to Management of Childhood Obesity

Background

Childhood obesity is a global epidemic affecting millions worldwide. Children living with obesity face increased risks of health-related and psychosocial problems extending into adulthood. Parents and carers play a crucial role in cultivating healthy habits in their children. This review aims to synthesize qualitative research on parental perceptions, motivators, and barriers in managing childhood obesity and their views on weight management programs.

Methods

This systematic review was performed in accordance with the guidelines established by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. A variety of electronic databases were explored for qualitative studies published between 2006 and 2023. The CASP checklist was employed to assess the quality of the studies. Data extraction and synthesis were carried out utilizing thematic content analysis.

Results

The search identified 20 peer-reviewed studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Key themes were mapped into five distinct groups: perceptions, facilitators and barriers influencing the management of childhood obesity, as well as facilitators and barriers to enrolment into a weight management program. Parents often perceived obesity as a temporary condition, genetically determined and believed it should not be considered as a major health concern. Identified facilitators included the restriction of screen time, school involvement, goal setting, and enhanced child-parent communication. Conversely, barriers included lack of child motivation, peer influence, easy access to junk food, as well as parental denial, insufficient knowledge or control and logistical challenges.

Conclusion

To tackle childhood obesity, it is essential to adopt a comprehensive strategy that fosters a supportive family environment. Successful initiatives should encompass nutritional education for both parents and children, increase access to healthy food choices, implement home-based programs, and improve the infrastructure that encourages physical activity. Additionally, cultural factors and technological advancements should be considered when designing these interventions.

Systematic Review Registration Number

PROSPERO (CRD42024514219).

A Latent Class Analysis of Family Eating Behaviors and Home Environment Habits on Preschool-Aged Children's Body Mass Index

Background: The etiology of obesity is multifaceted, with multiple risk factors occurring during early childhood (e.g., fast food frequency, eating dinner as a family, TV in the bedroom). Many past studies have largely considered obesity risk factors in isolation, when in reality, the risk factors likely cluster together. A latent class analysis can be used to identify patterns in child eating behaviors, parent feeding behaviors, and household habits among preschool-aged children and their families to identify distinct, heterogenous classes and to determine if classes are associated with overweight and obesity. Methods: We used data from a community-based study of 624 three- to five-year-old children and a parent in New Hampshire, from March 2014 to October 2015. Parent-reported data were used to determine frequency of eating behaviors and household habits. Height and weight were objectively measured. Results: Four classes were identified; Class 1: "Healthy/Mildly accommodating," Class 2: "Healthy/Accommodating," Class 3: "Moderately healthy/Moderately accommodating," and Class 4: "Least healthy/Least accommodating." Compared with Class 1, children in Class 4 had increased odds of being overweight or obese [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.64, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13-2.15], whereas Classes 2 and 3 were not associated with BMI (Class 2: aOR: 1.24, 95% CI: 0.62-1.86; Class 3: aOR: 1.31, 95% CI: 0.81-1.81). Conclusion: Study findings highlight that child-parent interactions around meals differentially relate to children's weight status given the context of children's eating habits. Most important, our study findings confirm the importance of adapting multiple healthy habits within the home social and physical environment to offset obesity risk in young children.

Association of parental eating styles and markers of food intake and nutritional status of Brazilian children

We analysed the relationships between maternal feeding styles and children's eating and nutritional factors. A cross-sectional study was developed with 416 mothers linked to 130 public higher education institutions in all Brazilian states and their children aged 18 months to six years. A semi-structured online questionnaire was applied using the Google Forms tool, with questions about sociodemographic conditions, food consumption and anthropometry of the children. The children's food consumption was assessed based on the Food Consumption Markers Form (SISVAN) for the age groups up to 24 months (n = 84) and over 24 months (n = 332), and the parental style in feeding, based on the Parental Feeding Styles Questionnaire (QEPA). The assessment of the child's nutritional status was based on the weight and height data reported by the mother. The body mass index/age (BMI/Age) was calculated and classified into age-specific WHO curves. Descriptive analysis and univariate analyses were performed, in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 26.0) programs (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL). To test the association between categorical variables, the Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test was used, and multiple logistic regression was used to estimate the independent association between the variables of interest, with an estimated odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. Statistical significance was adopted at 5%. Children under 24 months of age with authoritative mothers were 8.7 times more likely to consume ultra-processed foods and 5.3 times less likely to consume foods rich in vitamin A than those with indulgent mothers. Children over 24 months old with authoritative mothers were 2.5 times more likely to eat meals while watching television, 2.0 times more likely to consume sandwich cookies, candies and sweets, and 2.3 times less likely to have at least the three main meals of a day, compared to those with indulgent mothers. The chances of overweight children being born to authoritative mothers were two times greater compared to underweight children. Higher scores in the demandingness domain among responsive mothers increased the odds ratios of children eating unhealthy foods, using screens during meals, and proved to be a protective factor against low child weight.

Managing Dyslipidemia in Children: Current Approaches and the Potential of Artificial Intelligence

Dyslipidemia is abnormal lipid and lipoprotein levels in the blood, influenced mainly by genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The management of lipid levels in children involves early screening, nonpharmacological interventions such as lifestyle modifications and dietary changes, nutraceuticals, and pharmacological treatments, including drug therapy. However, the prevalence of dyslipidemia in the pediatric population is increasing, particularly among obese children, which is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular complications. This narrative review analyzes current literature on the management of dyslipidemia in children and explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve screening, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using Google Scholar and PubMed databases, focusing primarily on the application of AI in managing dyslipidemia. AI has been beneficial in managing lipid disorders, including lipid profile analysis, obesity assessments, and familial hypercholesterolemia screening. Deep learning models, machine learning algorithms, and artificial neural networks have improved diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy. While most studies are done in the adult population, the promising results suggest further exploring AI management of dyslipidemia in children.

Understanding childhood obesity in Pakistan: exploring the knowledge, attitudes, practices of mothers, and influential factors. A cross-sectional study

Background

Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue with far-reaching implications. The World Health Organization reported that in 2020, around 38 million children under five were overweight or obese globally, and in 2016, 340 million children and adolescents aged 5-19 were affected. In Pakistan, the situation is alarming; 66.9% of school-going children in Punjab were overweight, and 5.8% were obese in 2022. This study explores mothers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding childhood obesity in Pakistan and identifies factors contributing to this epidemic. Maternal perspectives are crucial as they significantly influence children's dietary habits, physical activity, and attitudes toward food and body image.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023 to January 2024 at four medical centers: Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College Hospitals Karachi, Baqai Medical University Karachi, and Nishtar Medical University Multan. The study included 191 mothers with children aged 5 to 15 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, practices, and perceptions of childhood obesity. IBM-SPSS version 26.0 was used for data analysis, employing statistical tests like Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, Spearman, or Kendall Tau correlation to examine associations.

Results

Among the 191 mothers, 48.7% had education beyond intermediate, and 86.9% were housewives. The children's BMI distribution showed that 27.7% were obese and 21.5% overweight. Mothers had moderate knowledge (60.5%) about childhood obesity; 75.4% recognized its long-term health risks, and 62.8% associated it with diabetes. Attitudes were generally positive, with a 78.5% average score. Most mothers (73.8%) believed obesity could be controlled and had healthy practices (70.1% average score). However, 96.9% reported witnessing stigmatization of obese children, and 79.6% felt pressured by relatives about their child's weight.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that while Pakistani mothers have moderate knowledge and positive attitudes toward childhood obesity, their practices are influenced by educational and socioeconomic factors. Addressing these disparities, enhancing public health initiatives, and mitigating stigmatization could improve childhood obesity management in Pakistan.

Individual characteristics and environmental factors influencing preschoolers' emotional eating

Emotional eating, which refers to eating in response to emotional states, is prevalent in early childhood. Executive function (EF) and sleep problems are related to preschoolers' self-regulatory abilities during the day and night and have been reported to be associated with their emotional eating. These associations can be stronger in emotionally stressful situations, such as controlling feeding practices. This study explored the role of preschoolers' EF and sleep problems as child characteristics, as well as maternal feeding practices as environmental factors influencing emotional eating during the preschool period. Participants included 363 Korean mothers with preschoolers aged 3- to 5-years old (190 boys, 173 girls). Mothers reported on their own feeding practices, and preschoolers' EF, sleep problems, and emotional eating. Results indicated that preschoolers' EF was negatively associated with emotional over- and undereating, and this association was stronger when mothers applied more pressure to eat. Maternal monitoring had a similar effect, with emotional overeating exerting a greater impact with low levels of maternal monitoring. Finally, maternal pressure to eat moderated the influence of preschoolers' sleep problems on emotional overeating, with higher pressure to eat predicting a stronger relationship between sleep problems and emotional overeating. These findings suggest that maternal feeding practices, which are relatively modifiable, should be considered an important element in intervention programs aimed at preventing emotional eating in preschool children.

Influences in food selection during complementary feeding in breastfeeding infants: A systematic review and metasynthesis of qualitative studies

In the transition period from breastfeeding to the introduction of complementary feeding, the choice of food is extremely important for the child's development as many factors may be related. This study aims to investigate, through a systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis, influence in the selection of foods in the introduction of complementary foods for children, including qualitative studies without language or publication period restrictions. Searches were performed in PubMed, LILACS, SciELO, Cinahl, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. Initially, 12,489 articles were selected for tittle reading, 13 were included in the review. Four analytical themes related to factors influencing complementary feeding were identified: family socioeconomic conditions, cultural and family aspects, guidance and advice from health professionals, and factors inherent to the infant. Economic factors, such as the opportunity to offer foods not consumed during the parents' childhood, were emphasized. The influence of grandmothers' opinions and community beliefs and traditions were considered. Trust in pediatricians and community health agents' advice, although considered, conflicted with cultural and family traditions. Mothers/caregivers often preferred to offer foods the child shows preference for, rather than introducing new flavors. The findings underscore the need for a better understanding of qualitative aspects.

A systematic review of parenting and feeding practices, children's feeding behavior and growth stunting in Asian countries

This systematic review evaluates studies focusing on parenting and feeding practices, children's feeding behavior, and growth stunting in Asian countries. Eight electronic databases were searched to screen studies published between Jan 2015 and May 2021. There were contradictory findings related to gender differences in growth stunting and factors that reinforce/facilitate or inhibit acquisition of optimum growth in children. Theme of parenting practices showed that time spent on childcare, traditional beliefs about child-care feeding and responsive feeding were also contributing factors. Amidst economic improvement, political, social changes, and worldwide execution of various nutritional programs, stunting continues to be relentlessly persistent and widespread in Asia. Undernutrition disturbs areas of the mind involved in reasoning, reminiscence, locomotor skills and also an adverse influence on the physical and psychological growth of children and ensuing learning capabilities. Stunted children have more anxiety and depression and lower self-esteem than non-stunted children. A public health strategy is required to: (i) properly examine stunting with time through collaborated efforts of community members and various sectors, (ii) tackle malnutrition with steps to enhance maternal nutrition during pregnancy, infant feeding practices and (iii) involvement of effective multi-sectoral partnership programs for management of stunting.

The trend of correlation changes of macronutrient intakes among different familial pairs: a prospective study among participants of Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study

BACKGROUND/AIM

Familial resemblance in dietary patterns has been a subject of interest, with both genetic and environmental factors playing crucial roles. This study aims to investigate trends in macronutrient intake correlations over a 9-year period among different familial pairs, including parent-offspring, siblings, and spouses, using data from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS).

METHODS

This longitudinal study, conducted within the framework of the TLGS, analyzed data from 1,814 families over a 9-year period. Dietary intakes were assessed using a validated 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Macronutrient intakes were calculated and adjusted for age. Familial correlations were estimated using intraclass correlation coefficients for various familial pairs (parent-offspring, siblings, and spouses) across four consecutive surveys. Changes in correlations were analyzed over 3-year, 6-year, and 9-year intervals, as well as across all four surveys, to determine overall trends in macronutrient intake correlations.

RESULTS

The results revealed diverse trends in intake correlations for carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and specific fatty acids across familial relationships. Parent-offspring dyads exhibited varied patterns, with some nutrients showing regression to the mean. Sister-sister pairs demonstrated strengthening correlations for energy, carbohydrates, fats, and saturated fatty acids over time. Conversely, brother-sister pairs displayed weakening correlations for most macronutrients, particularly energy, proteins, cholesterol, and fiber. Spouse correlations tended towards regression to the mean for energy, carbohydrates, and fats, and fiber.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study illuminates the dynamic nature of familial dietary correlations over time. The contrasting trends between sister-sister and brother-sister dyads suggest a significant influence of gender on shared dietary patterns. These findings underscore the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors in shaping family dietary behaviors and highlight the importance of considering both gender and relationship type when examining familial nutritional habits.

Caregivers' perceptions of feeding practices and diet diversity among children aged 12-59 months in a rural district of South India: an analytical cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study was to assess caregivers' perceptions of feeding practices (breastfeeding and complementary feeding) and diet diversity among children aged 12-59 months in a rural district of South India. The secondary objective was to identify potential predictors of these perceptions and diet diversity.

DESIGN

An analytical cross-sectional study was performed from March 2023 to May 2023.

SETTING

In a rural district of Tamil Nadu, South India.

PARTICIPANTS

This study included 301 mothers/caregivers of children between 12 and 59 months of age in a rural district of Tamil Nadu. The research gathered demographic information from caregivers, including details such as age, educational background, occupation, relationship with the child and place of residence. Additionally, the caregivers' perspectives were evaluated through a questionnaire focused on breastfeeding/complementary feeding, and the diet diversity of the children was also assessed.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the perceptions of mothers/caregivers of children between 12 and 59 months of age about breastfeeding/complementary feeding practices, and the diet diversity of the children was measured. Additionally, predictors associated with these perceptions were evaluated through regression analysis.

RESULTS

In the present study, 188 (62.5%) and 179 (59.5%) of the participants had good perceptions of breastfeeding practices and complementary feeding practices, respectively. This binomial regression revealed that subjects with unstable occupations (adjusted OR=2.24, 95% CI 1.25 to 4.01), schooling (7.71, 95% CI 2.73 to 8.9) and higher education (38.32, 95% CI 4.63 to 316.85) had increased chances of having good perceptions of breastfeeding practices. Subjects with unstable occupations (0.23, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.85), stable occupations (0.13, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.51), schooling (0.43, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.74), higher education (0.15, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.50) and increased birth weights (2.54, 95% CI 1.35 to 4.78) had increased chances of having good perceptions of complementary feeding practices (p<0.05). This study revealed that 86.4% of the children had adequate diet diversity.

CONCLUSION

The study revealed that most caregivers, particularly mothers, possess a strong understanding of breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices, with education and occupation exerting a notable influence. However, there is a crucial necessity to translate this knowledge into practical applications to effectively obtain feeding indicators.

A young child formula supplemented with a synbiotic mixture of scGOS/lcFOS and Bifidobacterium breve M-16V improves the gut microbiota and iron status in healthy toddlers

Early-life gut microbiota development depends on a highly synchronized microbial colonization process in which diet is a key regulator. Microbiota transition toward a more adult-like state in toddlerhood goes hand in hand with the transition from a milk-based diet to a family diet. Microbiota development during the first year of life has been extensively researched; however, studies during toddlerhood remain sparse. Young children's requirement for micronutrients, such as dietary iron, is higher than adults. However, their intake is usually sub-optimal based on regular dietary consumption. The Child Health and Residence Microbes (CHaRM) study, conducted as an adjunct to the GUMLi (Growing Up Milk "Lite") trial, was a double-blind randomized controlled trial to investigate the effects on body composition of toddler milk compared to unfortified standard cow's milk in healthy children between 1 and 2 years of age in Brisbane (Australia). In this trial, fortified milk with reduced protein content and added synbiotics [Bifidobacterium breve M-16V, short-chain galactooligosaccharides, and long-chain fructooligosaccharides (ratio 9:1)] and micronutrients were compared to standard unfortified cow's milk. In the present study, the effects of the intervention on the gut microbiota and its relationship with iron status in toddlers were investigated in a subset of 29 children (18 in the Active group and 11 in the Control group) who completed the CHaRM study. The toddler microbiota consisted mainly of members of the phyla Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Actinobacteriota. The abundance of the B. breve species was quantified and was found to be lower in the Control group than in the Active group. Analysis of blood iron markers showed an improved iron status in the Active group. We observed a positive correlation between Bifidobacterium abundance and blood iron status. PICRUSt, a predictive functionality algorithm based on 16S ribosomal gene sequencing, was used to correlate potential microbial functions with iron status measurements. This analysis showed that the abundance of predicted genes encoding for enterobactin, a class of siderophores specific to Enterobacteriaceae, is inversely correlated with the relative abundance of members of the genus Bifidobacterium. These findings suggest that healthy children who consume a young child formula fortified with synbiotics as part of a healthy diet have improved iron availability and absorption in the gut and an increased abundance of Bifidobacterium in their gut microbiome.

Associations between parent and child latent eating profiles and the role of parental feeding practices

Previous research employing the person-centred approach of Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) with parent-reported data of their child's eating behaviour identified four distinct eating profiles in 3-6-year-old children: typical, avid, happy, and avoidant eating (Pickard et al., 2023). In this follow-up study, the same parents were asked to self-report their own eating behaviour (N = 785) and LPA was conducted to determine the latent eating profiles of the parents/caregivers. The LPA showed that a four-profile solution best represented the sample of parents, termed: typical eating (n = 325, 41.4%), avid eating (n = 293, 37.3%), emotional eating (n = 123, 15.7%) and avoidant eating (n = 44, 5.6%). Multiple mediation analysis was then conducted to examine both the direct associations between parents' eating profiles and the child's probability of eating profile membership, as well as the indirect associations through the mediatory role of specific parental feeding practices. The results suggested direct links between parent and child eating profiles, with the 'avid eating' and 'avoidant eating' profiles in parents predicting similar profiles in their children. Feeding practices, such as using food for emotional regulation, providing balanced and varied food, and promoting a healthy home food environment, mediated associations between parent and child eating profiles. This research provides novel evidence to reinforce the need for interventions to be specifically tailored to both the parent's and child's eating profiles. The work also provides an interesting avenue for future longitudinal examination of whether the parents' provision of a healthy home food environment could protect against intergenerational transmission of less favourable eating behaviours.

Parent Experiences of Empowerment: Understanding the Role of Parent Empowerment in Child Health Promotion

BACKGROUND

Establishing healthy behaviors during a child's first 5 years is essential for healthy growth. Parents are targeted as agents of change because they serve as primary models of behavior during this period. Although parent-focused interventions often target empowerment as a driver of change, our understanding of how parents experience the process of empowerment in the context of child health promotion remains limited.

OBJECTIVE

This qualitative study explored the process by which parents gain empowerment through participation in a health promotion intervention.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 37 low-income parents who participated in Parents Connect for Healthy Living (PConnect), a 10-week empowerment-centered obesity prevention intervention. Data were analyzed using inductive-deductive thematic analysis and guided by empowerment theories.

RESULTS

Most parents were Hispanic/Latino (41%) and female (97%). Five themes emerged that correspond to the process by which parents gained empowerment: (1) friendships formed and relationships strengthened during PConnect, (2) parents strengthened relationships with their children and believed in their ability to parent successfully, (3) the experience of knowledge led to behavior change, (4) parents used new resources to improve family health, and (5) parents took action.

CONCLUSION

Empowerment theory should be a component of health promotion programs.

Dietary practices of children and adolescents residing in an area of Chakdaha Block, Nadia district, West Bengal

Background

Childhood and adolescence are crucial developmental stages during the life course. They develop and establish lifelong dietary and lifestyle habits. Unhealthy food environments that influence the risk of obesity and other nutrition-related NCDs by affecting the dietary patterns. Assessment of dietary patterns and factors affecting them will help to provide targeted interventions to improve the same.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among children aged more than 6 months and adolescents by interviewing their mothers regarding the dietary patterns. A two-stage sampling method was followed for selection of the participants.

Results

A total of 325 participants were interviewed. Dietary diversity (DD) was present in 55.4% of the participants. Children of mothers who were educated beyond middle school (aOR = 3.81 (1.87-7.73), P = 0.000) and children who stayed in a joint family (aOR = 1.73 (1.11-2.72) P < 0.05) had higher odds of having dietary diversity in their diet, after adjusting for age and sex. Fast food shop location (aOR = 0.14 (0.05-0.38), P value = 0.000) was found to have a significant association with fast food intake among participants.

Conclusion

Children and adolescents residing in the study area have a distinct dietary pattern compared to prevalent dietary practices in India. To improve dietary diversity of children and adolescents, maternal education, family dynamics, and community food environment, which include fast food and market locations, can be points of targeted interventions.

Gender differences in adolescent food preferences and their association with parent food preferences: data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS)

PURPOSE

Food preference is an important factor that affects one's eating behavior and dietary intake. Parent food preferences and food choices may influence children food preferences. This study is aimed to describe gender differences and time trends of Chinese adolescent food preferences and to explore the association between adolescent and their parent food preferences.

METHODS

The data were drawn from four waves of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) conducted between 2006 and 2015. Participants were asked to indicate their degree of preferences for five food categories (fast food, salty snack food, fruits, vegetables, and soft/sugary drinks) using a 5-point Likert scale (from "dislike very much" to "like very much"). Logistic regression was performed to determine the association of food preferences between adolescents and their parents.

RESULTS

Adolescent preferences for unhealthy foods were significantly higher than those of adults. Adolescent food preferences for fruits and vegetables decreased slightly over nine years, and there were gender differences in healthy food preferences (girls > boys, P < 0.05). Regardless of boys or girls, adolescent food preferences for healthy foods (fruits and vegetables) were significantly associated with both their fathers (OR: 3.64-4.58 for boys and 2.71-4.39 for girls) and mothers (OR: 2.13-4.11 for boys and 3.07-5.66 for girls) food preferences. For fast food and salty snack food preferences, boys appeared to be influenced greater by their fathers than girls, while girls appeared to be influenced greater by their mothers than boys.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study reveals a high degree of unhealthy food preferences among Chinese adolescents and a gender-specific association of fast food and salty snack preference between Chinese adolescents and their parents. Our results may be useful for interventions to reduce adolescent unhealthy food preferences and intakes.

Dairy Consumption at Breakfast among Southeast Asian Children: Associations with Nutrient Intake from the South East Asian Nutrition Surveys II (SEANUTS II)

BACKGROUND

Children's rapid growth requires adequate nutrient intake, with breakfast, especially when incorporating dairy, playing an important role. This study examined associations between dairy consumption at breakfast and energy and nutrient intake among children in Southeast Asia.

METHODS

Utilizing the cross-sectional South East Asian Nutrition Surveys II dataset, using a 24 h dietary recall and questionnaires distributed among 10,286 children aged 2 to 12 years from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, we investigated the impact of dairy consumption at breakfast on nutrient intake and examined associations between breakfast consumption and the prevalence of stunting and overweight/obesity among 10,135 children.

RESULTS

Although most of the children consumed breakfast, only 37%, 27%, 16%, and 18% in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, respectively, included dairy in this meal, with younger children being significantly more likely to consume dairy at breakfast (p < 0.001). Dairy consumers had significantly higher intakes of vitamins A, B12, and D and calcium both at breakfast and throughout the day (p < 0.001). Breakfast skippers had a 29% increased risk of being overweight/obese.

CONCLUSIONS

Dairy consumption at breakfast was associated with enhanced nutrient intake and overall diet quality among Southeast Asian children. The association between breakfast habits and anthropometric outcomes highlights the need to address nutritional deficiencies and promote healthy growth and development.

Effectiveness of a nutrition education intervention using simulation videos and encouragement of parental involvement for elementary school students

This study aims to develop a nutrition education intervention to promote healthy eating, and to evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention on healthy eating knowledge, attitude and behaviour among elementary students. A quasi-experimental study was conducted in two elementary schools in Taiwan. The intervention course design included simulation videos, lectures, and the after-school learning worksheet designed for parental involvement. A total of 4 courses along with 4 simulation videos were given to the intervention group. The four course themes were Sugar patrol, Balanced Diet during the Mid-Autumn Festival, Rainbow Fruit and Vegetables, and Smart Dine Out. The study recruited 35 3rd grade students for the intervention group and 30 for the control group. Data were collected from the pre- and post-test questionnaires. The nutrition intervention had significant effects on improving participants' knowledge about tips for making healthy choices and the necessity of balanced diet, and on attitude toward healthy eating. There was no significant improvement in participants' healthy eating behaviours. This nutrition education intervention, which utilized simulation videos and encouraged parental involvement, could be recommended for teaching practice in elementary schools to improve healthy eating knowledge and attitude among students.

Parental verbal communication and modeling behavior during mealtimes shape offspring eating behavior - A systematic review with a focus on clinical implications for eating disorders

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of parental communication patterns during mealtimes, with a special emphasis being placed on the differences between families with and without a history of eating disorders.

METHODS

The systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA statement. A systematic literature search was carried out in PubMed, PubPsych and PsycINFO and the results were assessed for eligibility by two independent raters using the PICOS criteria. Only studies that included a mealtime observation were considered suitable for analysis of both explicit and implicit parental communication.

RESULTS

The results of the review suggest that mothers communicate more, with more complexity, and with a greater variety of words with their children during mealtimes compared to fathers. The intention and type of communication is diverse and heterogeneous. In general, parents often tried to encourage their children to eat. Verbal modeling and co-eating appeared to be common behaviors. Mothers with a history of eating disorders expressed more negative emotions during eating than mothers without eating disorders. Findings regarding the use of positive comments and controlling speech are contradicting.

DISCUSSION

The review outlines major fields of parent-child communication and modeling behavior around family meals which might be relevant to investigate and integrate into models of intergenerational transmission of eating behavior and disordered eating.

Applying the Family Stress Model to responsive feeding and early obesity prevention

Rapid weight gain during infancy and obesity during early childhood may lead to adverse health outcomes during later childhood and into adulthood, especially in families experiencing economic hardship. Families experiencing economic hardship may also experience food insecurity, which can impact child development and responsive feeding, an important target for obesity prevention in early life. The Family Stress Model suggests that stress, particularly economic hardship, can negatively impact parents' mental health, parenting, and quality of family relationships. This review proposes a conceptual model that expands upon the original Family Stress Model by including parent-child dyadic interactions during feeding (i.e., responsive feeding) as well as the coparenting relationship around feeding. Our conceptual model integrates responsive feeding into the Family Stress Model and includes the impact of food insecurity on feeding and child health outcomes. Such models that consider multiple influences on child development have implications for the design of effective interventions to promote healthy growth for entire families. Future directions in this research will empirically test the model and explore early intervention strategies that aim to promote responsive feeding, nutrition security, and health within families. Continuing interdisciplinary research between the fields of nutrition and family development will be key to addressing the complex interplay of family stressors, parent responsiveness, and childhood obesity.

The relationship between caregivers and daughters' food and body shape scripts: A dyadic analysis

Research indicates a key role for parenting in a daughter's relationship with food and body shape. One possible mechanism for this translational process is through scripts. The present study used a dyadic design to investigate the relationship between caregivers and daughters' scripts regarding food and body shape. Caregivers (n = 40) and their daughters (n = 40) rated word lists of their current and childhood scripts and caregivers completed an additional measure of their parenting scripts. Non-dyadic analysis showed consistent correlations between daughters' current scripts and their recollections of childhood scripts, and several (but less consistent) correlations between caregivers' current scripts, their own childhood scripts and the scripts they had used as a parent. Dyadic analysis showed consistent correlations between the daughter's current scripts relating to negative eating and both positive and negative body scripts and their caregiver's parenting scripts, and between the daughter's current scripts relating to positive and negative eating and body looking positive and their caregiver's current scripts. No associations were found between the daughter's current scripts and the caregiver's childhood scripts. The results indicate that whilst daughters' current scripts relating to food and body shape are often concordant to those reported by their caregivers, they are more closely linked to what they remember from their childhoods. Further, they suggest that those scripts which do transfer between generations may be more related to body size and negative eating than food per se. Finally, the results suggest that scripts do not inevitably pass across the generations possibly due to parents choosing not to repeat the errors of their own parents or due to the role of factors other than just parenting in creating the scripts we hold.

Assessment of Milk and Beverage Intake Trends During Preschool Age and Modeling the Nutritional Impact of Replacing Nondairy Caloric Beverages with Milk

Background

Milk provides essential crucial public health nutrients, including 3-4 nutrients of public health concern, yet dairy consumption has declined over time, leading most Americans to fall short of meeting Dietary Guidelines recommendations.

Objectives

To investigate milk and beverage consumption trends in preschool-age children, along with nutrient intakes from beverages, and to analyze the potential impact of replacing nondairy beverages with milk through isocaloric substitution.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2018 for children aged 1-5 y (n = 4696) were used, and milk and other beverages intakes were estimated from the first 24-h in-person dietary recall. Nutrient intakes were determined using the United States Department of Agriculture's food and nutrient database for dietary studies. Changes in nutrient intakes of children aged 2-5 y were modeled assuming isocaloric substitution with milk of all nondairy beverages consumed during lunch and dinner combined. Sample-weighted analyses were performed using SAS 9.4, and significance was set at P < 0.01.

Results

With the increasing age of children, the intake of milk decreased, whereas the intake of energy, caloric beverages excluding milk, and sugar-sweetened beverages increased. Daily intakes of energy, protein, fat, saturated fatty acids (SFA), calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, vitamin A, folate, vitamin B-12, and vitamin D from caloric beverages including milk decreased with age, whereas the daily intake of fiber and added sugar increased with age. With the isocaloric replacement of nondairy caloric beverages with milk at lunch and dinner among children aged 2-5 y, intake of protein, fat, SFAs, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, vitamin A, folate, vitamin B-12, and vitamin D increased, whereas for intake of carbohydrate, fiber, total sugar, and added sugar decreased.

Conclusions

The current findings indicate that increased efforts are needed to reverse the decrease in milk intake over time and as preschool children age and provide additional evidence to support specific dietary recommendations for milk.

Mother-infant feeding interactions in mothers with and without eating disorder history: Results of a structured observational study

BACKGROUND

A growing body of evidence suggests that children of mothers with eating disorders (EDs) have a greater risk of early feeding problems. Recognizing and reacting adequately to the infant's signals during feeding is crucial for the child's development of internal and external regulatory mechanisms of food intake. Parental EDs might affect this ability. Therefore, we investigated the quality of mother-infant interactions during feeding using video recording and a structured coding system.

METHODS

The data of this pilot study was collected in a prospective cohort study investigating the influence of maternal EDs on child outcomes. Twenty women with ED history and 31 control women were videotaped while feeding their infant during a main meal at ten months postpartum. The mother-infant interactions were evaluated by two raters using the Chatoor Feeding Scale. We assessed birth outcomes, the mother's ED and depression status, breastfeeding practices, infant feeding problems and infant temperament by maternal self-report.

RESULTS

Mothers with and without ED history scored very similar on the Feeding Scale, however mothers from the control group experienced more struggle for control with their infants during feeding (p = 0.046) and made more negative comments about the infant's food intake (p = 0.010). Mothers with ED history were more concerned about infant feeding at three months postpartum and reported significantly more problems with solid foods in their children. Birth outcomes were comparable between groups, except for lower weight-for-length birth percentiles in children of women with ED history.

CONCLUSION

Whilst examined mothers with ED history are more concerned about feeding their children, ED psychopathology does not affect the quality of mother-infant interaction during feeding at the transition to autonomous eating at ten months of age.

Understanding parents' perceptions of children's exposure to unhealthy food marketing in digital and retail environments

Unhealthy food and non-alcoholic beverage marketing (UFM) adversely impacts children's selection and intake of foods and beverages, undermining parents' efforts to promote healthy eating. Parents' support for restrictions on children's exposure to food marketing can catalyse government action, yet research describing parent concerns is limited for media other than television. We examined parents' perceptions of UFM and their views on potential policies to address UFM in supermarkets and on digital devices - two settings where children are highly exposed to UFM and where little recent research exists. We conducted in-depth interviews with sixteen parents of children aged 7-12 from Victoria, Australia, analysing the data thematically. Parents perceived UFM as ubiquitous and viewed exposure as having an immediate but temporary impact on children's food desires and pestering behaviours. Parents were concerned about UFM in supermarkets as they viewed it as leading their children to pester them to buy marketed products, undermining their efforts to instil healthy eating behaviours. Parents generally accepted UFM as an aspect of contemporary parenting. Concern for digital UFM was lower compared to supermarkets as it was not directly linked to pestering and parents had limited awareness of what their children saw online. Nevertheless, parents felt strongly that companies should not be allowed to target their children with UFM online and supported government intervention to protect their children. While parents supported government policy actions for healthier supermarket environments, their views towards restricting UFM in supermarkets varied as some parents felt it was their responsibility to mitigate supermarket marketing. These findings could be used to advocate for policy action in this area.

Restriction and Pressure to Eat Are Associated Cross-Sectionally, But Not Longitudinally, With BMI z-Score in a Longitudinal Cohort Study of Adolescents

Background: Parents can influence child weight through their use of food parenting practices, although data are limited in adolescents. The purpose of this study was to examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between BMI z-Score (zBMI) and restriction and pressure to eat in adolescents. Methods: Adolescents (12-14 years of age at baseline; N = 236) had their height/weight measured at baseline and 24 months and their parent completed the Child Feeding Questionnaire. Linear regressions examined relationships between food parenting practices and zBMI. Results: Cross-sectionally, restriction was positively associated with zBMI at both baseline (β = 0.28, p < 0.001) and 24 months (β = 0.141, p = 0.039). In contrast, pressure to eat was negatively associated with zBMI at both baseline (β = -0.30, p < 0.001) and 24 months (β = -0.31, p < 0.001). Neither restriction (β = -0.028, p = 0.446) nor pressure to eat (β = -0.027, p = 0.493) at baseline predicted 2-year changes in zBMI. zBMI at baseline did not predict 2-year changes in either restriction (β = -0.003, p = 0.965) or pressure to eat (β = -0.056, p = 0.611). Conclusion: Findings highlight that adolescents perceive moderate levels of restriction and pressure to eat, with levels differing by weight status. These findings suggest that the bidirectional relationships between child weight status and food parenting practices are likely established before adolescence, but persist throughout adolescence. Further longitudinal studies should examine the impact of restriction and pressure to eat early in childhood on weight trajectories into adolescence and adulthood. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04027608.

Associations Between Perceived Parental and Michigan Middle-School Students' Lifestyle Characteristics

BACKGROUND

Parents play a critical role in their children's health. We explored the association of children's perception of their parents' health behaviors and education level with the health behaviors of middle-school students participating in a school-based wellness program.

METHODS

Students completed a baseline survey on their dietary, physical activity, and sedentary behaviors, and their parents' health behaviors and education. Descriptive statistics and generalized linear regression with random intercept analyzed which child-reported parent behaviors, parent education levels, and demographic factors were associated with healthy child behaviors.

RESULTS

Among 4607 students, for all behaviors assessed, children who perceived their parent exhibiting a healthy behavior were more likely to display the same healthy behavior. Healthier diet, more physical activity, and less sedentary habits were reported by students who reported their parents had college or higher education, compared to students who reported their parents had some college or less education.

CONCLUSIONS

These results encourage increased parental involvement in childhood wellness programs. Additionally, these data suggest interventions which target parents with lower educational attainment may also benefit their children's health behaviors. As we continue to understand how adolescent behavior is shaped, we can increase the effectiveness of targeted health education for parents and children.

The Effects of Parental Food Education on Children's Food Literacy: The Mediating Role of Parent-Child Relationship and Learning Motivation

Parental food education has been recognized among the important factors influencing children's food literacy; however, the intrinsic mechanisms through which this influence occurs are unclear. In this study, a mediation model was constructed to explore this issue, using the parent-child relationship and learning motivation as mediating variables. In total, 204 children, aged 9-14 years old, responded to questionnaires on parental food education, children's food literacy, the parent-child relationship, and learning motivation, which were used to measure the variables of interest. The results showed that parental food education was significantly and positively related to the parent-child relationship, learning motivation, and children's food literacy; the parent-child relationship was significantly and positively related to learning motivation; and learning motivation was significantly and positively related to children's food literacy. Parental food education influenced children's food literacy in the following two main ways: the mediating role of learning motivation and the chain-mediating roles of the parent-child relationship and learning motivation. In addition, we attempt to explore the moderating role of the teaching stage between parental food education and the parent-child relationship, learning motivation, and children's food literacy. In this paper, we discuss possible guidelines for family food education and children's health based on the findings of the current study.

Promoting healthy eating in childhood: results from the Children PrOmOting Nutrition throUgh Theatre (COcONUT) project

BACKGROUND

Despite several international initiatives aimed to contrast childhood overweight and obesity, these still represent a major public health problem. Recently, the World Health Organization called for a new type of preventive action, requiring stakeholders from both governments and civil society, to play a decisive role in shaping healthy environments, especially for children.

METHODS

COcONUT (Children PrOmOting Nutrition throUgh Theatre) was a nutrition education project, involving children aged 5-12 years, aimed to raise awareness on healthy eating, through theatrical and practical workshops. Within this project we conducted an observational study assessing: 1) children adherence to the Mediterranean diet, using the KIDMED questionnaire; 2) parental nutritional knowledge and families' food habits using the ZOOM8 questionnaire. The non-parametric Wilcoxon and the McNemar's Test were used. Statistical significance was fixed P<0.05.

RESULTS

Our data show a statistically significant improvement in Mediterranean Diet adherence among children (P=0.0004). Moreover, we found positive trends in some families' food habits, as for instance less perceived barriers in fruits/vegetables/pulses consumption, less perceived barriers in doing sports and less consumption of unhealthy snacks.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirm the important role played by funny and active learning in health promotion initiatives.

Comparing Family Health Before and After a Family-Focused Nutrition Program during the Pandemic

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic affected child health behaviors, leading to worse physical health. Given the importance of good family health in improved child health outcomes, this secondary cohort analysis tested the hypothesis that family health would improve from baseline to 12-week follow-up after participation in a novel family nutrition program.

METHODS

Diverse parent-child dyads participated in a home-based virtual Teaching Kitchen Outreach (vTKO) program (11 weekly healthy, low-cost recipes, cooking videos, and associated groceries delivered). The primary outcome was the Family Healthy Lifestyle Subscale (FHLS). Secondary outcomes were parent and child nutrition, and food insecurity. Statistical testing and modeling were used to evaluate pre-post outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 123 enrolled dyads, 114 (93%) had sufficient data for analysis. Participants were 11% Hispanic, 54% Black, and 28% White; 31% completed high school or less; and 30% indicated food insecurity. Cohort mean pre-post FHLS scores significantly increased (25.5 vs. 27.3; p < 0.001). There were significant improvements in parent nutrition (p < 0.001) and child nutrition (p = 0.02 to < 0.001), but not in food security. After adjusting for baseline covariates, tobit regression found statistically significant pre-post FHLS differences (2.3; 95% CI=[1.4, 3.3]; p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

Participants in the novel home-based vTKO program reported improved family health over 12 weeks.

Racial Disparities in the Relationship between Parental Incarceration and Childhood Obesity

Despite a developing literature on the consequences of parental incarceration, its effects on childhood obesity are not evident. Our research project fills this knowledge gap by describing the relationship between parental incarceration and childhood obesity among children aged 3 to 15 and determining if and how this association differs across race. We use four consecutive waves of data on 3,302 children from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study. Our analysis finds little evidence that parental incarceration influences the probability of obesity among all children as a group. Moreover, our findings reveal critical racial disparities in the relationship between parental incarceration and childhood obesity. In particular, parental lifetime incarceration is not associated with risks of obesity for White or Hispanic children but is associated with a significantly decreased chance of obesity for Black children. This research effort can initiate an interdisciplinary conversation on the important intersection of family and corrections in order to alleviate the intergenerational erosion of physical health and well-being.

Longevity extension in rats via improved redox homeostasis with high carbohydrate diet intervention from weaning to adulthood: a comprehensive multi-omics study

Early dietary patterns potentially influence the health status and lifespan throughout adulthood and the entire lifespan. However, dietary behaviors are difficult for everyone to control during adolescence. It is even more important to study the effects of interventions of early dietary patterns on the lifespan under arbitrary feeding conditions. The research involves observing the survival status and lifespan of rats from weaning to adulthood with three different dietary patterns (a high-carbohydrate diet (HC), a high-protein diet (HP), and a high-fat diet (HF)) under ad libitum feeding conditions. The administration of high-carbohydrate diets leads to a significant extension of both median and maximum survival times (P < 0.05) in Wistar rats. Furthermore, it markedly enhanced the spatial memory capacity, mitigated the occurrence of liver and kidney pathological outcomes in elderly rats, and increased the abundance of gut microbiota improving amino acid metabolism. Additionally, feeding rats a high-carbohydrate diet improved glutathione (GSH) synthesis and recycling and activated the expression and upregulation of the lifespan-related proteins Foxo3a/Sirt3 and the key metabolic enzyme GPX-4. The high-carbohydrate diet from weaning to adulthood may potentially extend the lifespan by enhancing rat systemic glutathione synthesis, recycling, and improving the redox state pathway.