Researchers who followed more than 2,000 Quebec children from early childhood to adolescence did not find any similar link for boys
Girls who overeat regularly in the preschool years are more likely to experience anxiety, impulsivity and hyperactivity in adolescence, according to a new study led by researchers at McGill University and the Douglas Research Centre.
The study followed more than 2,000 Quebec children using provincial data, tracking eating patterns reported by caregivers in early childhood and assessing mental-health symptoms when participants turned 15. The link between overeating and later difficulties was seen in girls, but not in boys.
Takeaway for caregivers
The findings suggest that children’s eating patterns can be early signals of mental-health challenges. The researchers emphasize, however, that the results show only associations, not that certain eating patterns necessarily cause later mental health challenges.
“Occasional overeating is normal, but if a child frequently overeats, it can be a sign of emotional struggles,” said senior author Linda Booij, Professor in McGill’s Department of Psychiatry and clinician-scientist at the Douglas Eating Disorders Continuum and Research Centre.