How Screen Time Affects Kids' Eating Habits, Expert Weighs In

In today’s digital age, managing screen time is a growing challenge, especially regarding children’s nutritional health. We reached out to Dr Avneet Kaur MBBS, DCH, DNB, FAGE – Consultant Neonatology, Pediatrics, Apollo Cradle, Children’s Hospital, Motinagar to understand how screen time impacts kids eating habits and how you can manage it.

How Screen Time Impacts Kids eating Habits

Dr Avneet Kaur said prolonged screen exposure can lead to mindless eating, leading to obesity and other health issues. This distraction often results in overeating, with kids consuming larger portions or more frequent snacks without recognizing when they’re full.

Several studies show that children who eat while watching screens tend to consume more calories and less nutritious foods than those who eat without distractions. Additionally, the timing of screen use can further complicate dietary habits.

Children who use screens during mealtimes may skip meals or opt for less balanced options. Mindless snacking while watching TV or playing games can disrupt regular meal patterns and contribute to poor eating habits.

Dr Avneet Kaur emphasised that excessive screen time also decreases physical activity, which is essential for a healthy lifestyle. The sedentary nature of screen use can lead to weight gain and reinforce unhealthy eating patterns.

How To Reduce Screen Time For Kids

Here are the effective strategies to reduce screen time:

Set Clear Limits

Follow guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which recommend no more than 1 to 2 hours of recreational screen time per day for children over 2 years old.

Create Screen-Free Zones

Designate areas such as the dining room and bedrooms as screen-free to encourage family interaction and focus during mealtimes.

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Be A Role Model

Limit your own screen time to set a positive example for your child.

Encourage Other Activities

Provide engaging alternatives like outdoor play, arts and crafts, or reading to help your child explore interests beyond screens.

Use Technology Together

Engage with your child in screen activities to monitor content and make screen time interactive and educational.

How To Incorporate Healthy Eating Habits

Here’s how you can incorporate healthy eating habits in kids:

Plan Balanced Meals

Ensure meals are nutritionally balanced (benefits of eating balanced diet) with a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Involve Children In Meal Prep

Get children involved in meal planning and preparation to increase their interest in healthy foods.

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Offer Healthy Snacks

Keep nutritious snacks like fresh fruit, yoghurt, and vegetables available while limiting sugary or processed options.

Promote Mindful Eating

Teach children to eat slowly, savour their food, and listen to their hunger cues.

Make Meals Enjoyable

Create a pleasant eating environment by sitting down together and minimising distractions like TV or phones.

By implementing these strategies, parents can help their children develop healthier screen habits and eating practices, fostering better overall well-being.

Image Courtsey: Freepik