Eating unhealthy foods early in life can trigger life-long changes in the way the brain regulates eating, new research shows.
University College Cork scientists found that frequent consumption of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods in childhood can spark bad eating patterns that persist into adulthood.
“Children today are growing up in food environments saturated with high-fat, high-sugar options that are readily accessible and heavily promoted,” the research report said.
“From birthday parties and school celebrations to sporting events and even as rewards for good behaviour, these foods have become a routine part of childhood experiences.”
The researchers found that exposure to a high-fat, high-sugar diet during early life led to persistent alterations in feeding behaviour in adulthood.
These behavioural changes were linked to lasting disruptions in the adult hypothalamus, a key brain region involved in appetite control and energy balance.
The study, published this week Nature Communications, also found that foods such as onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus and bananas could help prevent these effects when administered throughout life.
Study first author Cristina Cuesta-Martí said the research suggested early dietary exposure could leave hidden, long-term effects on feeding behaviour that were not immediately visible through weight alone.
More details are available here.
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