Exploring the Feeding Practices in Neurotypical Children in Karnataka: A Preliminary Survey
Authors: Priyanka N. , Chandran Sindhusha , Swapna N. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction:
Eating or feeding is an important aspect of human life and the development of feeding skills begins at birth. The mastery of the feeding skills takes place until 3 years. Family and cultural factors mostly influence eating style, type of food, food repertoire, etc.

Need for the Study:
Feeding patterns or eating habits in India are diverse. With these great diversities, it is curious to know how the feeding patterns could differ across different districts of Karnataka.

Aim and Objective of the Study:
The objectives of the study are to assess child-related factors, environmental factors, and parental attitudes toward children’s nutrition and eating habits.

Methods:
The survey tool was developed with 47 questions and validated by speech-language pathologists (SLPs). It has three sections: demographic data, child-related domain, and parent-related factors. Data were collected from three different parts of Karnataka: north Karnataka (Group I), central Karnataka (Group II), and south Karnataka (Group III).

Results and Discussion:
Most mothers across all the groups are homemakers, with the central group having the highest percentage (84.6%). Majority of the participants are Hindu and from urban settings, particularly in the central and south groups. The central Karnataka group and the south Karnataka group reported 100% good general health and nutritional status, while the north Karnataka group had 75%. The central and south Karnataka groups showed the highest awareness and concern about their children’s food intake. South Karnataka Group does not show behavioral issues, While most children sit on the floor during meals, Central Karnataka Group shows a higher incidence of watching TV and demanding distractions and longer meal time. Parents engaged with their children during meals. In the central Karnataka group, more parents reported using tricks to encourage eating, while the south Karnataka group reported more open, happy communication during mealtime. Children of northern Karnataka significantly differed from southern and central regions in preference toward snack and junk food (P < 0.01), demand for screen time (P < 0.001), and overall health status (P < 0.05). Children of northern Karnataka significantly differed from southern Karnataka in need of complimentary food items during mealtime (P < 0.01). Further, children of south Karnataka (59%) interacted significantly better (P < 0.05) during the mealtime.

Summary and Conclusion:
The study highlights regional variations in feeding practices among typically developing children in Karnataka. South Karnataka shows more positive feeding practices, with higher rates of self-feeding, better junk food control, and healthier food preferences. In contrast, north and central Karnataka followed more traditional practices, such as higher rates of being fed by mothers and occasional junk food intake. It is important for the SLPs to consider these variations priorly to decide a particular feeding behavior, or food type is appropriate.