What is likely to happen to children who are given food when they are not hungry?

When children are given food when they are not hungry, they may lose the ability to determine what they need. This tendency can disrupt their natural hunger cues and interfere with their ability to listen to their bodies regarding when they are truly hungry or full. Over time, children may begin to rely on external cues (like being offered food) rather than their internal signals. This can lead to disordered eating patterns, where they no longer trust their own body's signals about hunger and satiety, potentially affecting their long-term relationship with food.

Encouraging children to eat only when they are hungry helps them develop a healthy understanding of their own bodily needs. This establishes a foundation for intuitive eating practices in the future, promoting healthier choices and overall well-being.