In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven era, a generation of children has grown up with their eyes glued to screens, surrounded by the digital world and devices that have become an integral part of daily life.
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However, like every advancement, this one comes with its challenges. Overuse of technology, especially during mealtime, has had negative consequences on children's health, particularly impacting their eating habits and mental well-being.
Children are now spending most of their time in front of screens, whether on the TV, phone, or tablet, even while eating. This habit has led to serious health risks, primarily obesity and weight gain. The distraction caused by screens prevents children from being aware of how much food they are consuming, causing them to eat continuously without recognizing feelings of fullness.
For instance, Um Muhammad, a 38-year-old mother, allows her 10-year-old son to watch his favorite content on his tablet while eating. Although she acknowledges that she is not entirely satisfied with this practice, she finds it effective for getting him to finish his meal. Over time, this habit has become ingrained, and now her son insists on watching videos while eating.
On the other hand, Um Yusuf, the mother of a 10-year-old, believes that children should be fully aware of what they are eating. She insists on a focused, screen-free mealtime, a principle she inherited from her own parents. She sees mealtime as an opportunity for healthy nutrition and family bonding, believing it is essential for children to enjoy their food without distractions.
Increased Obesity Rates
A study by the British "BEAT" charity has shown a significant increase in hospital admissions for eating disorders among children, with a 515% rise over the past decade. This is mainly attributed to the influence of social media and the increase in screen time. Dr. Lee Hudson, the lead researcher, highlighted a 65% rise in the number of children facing psychological health issues between 2012 and 2022, especially among girls aged 11 to 15 years.
According to nutritionist Ruba Al-Abbasi, eating while using electronic devices can lead to a range of problems. It distracts the individual, preventing them from focusing on the food, which affects digestion and nutrient absorption. Additionally, some children may not chew their food properly, leading to digestive issues such as indigestion and stomach discomfort.
Negative Impact on Digestion and Mental Health
Using devices while eating can also negatively affect the digestive system and lead to overeating. Children may continue eating simply to finish watching a video, ignoring their body’s signals of fullness. Over time, this can lead to the stretching of the stomach and, eventually, obesity. Moreover, this habit can result in long-term health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances, as well as emotional problems such as stress, anxiety, and even depression.
A study from Minho University in Portugal also revealed that children who spend more time in front of screens during mealtimes are at a higher risk of gaining weight. Researchers found that children who were distracted by screens while eating were 15% more likely to suffer from weight problems compared to those who were not.
Social and Family Impact
Besides the physical health risks, excessive screen time during meals is harming family relationships. When everyone is distracted by their devices, there is no opportunity for family conversation or bonding during mealtimes, which reduces the social interaction that is crucial for children's development.
Nutritionists recommend that families limit screen time during meals and focus on mindful eating to avoid overeating and the health risks associated with it. As the digital age continues to dominate, it is essential for families to establish clear rules to protect children’s mental and physical health, ensuring a balanced lifestyle that encourages healthy eating habits and quality family time.
Ultimately, the solution lies in awareness, discipline, and the creation of a family-oriented mealtime environment free of distractions, fostering healthier habits that contribute to a child's overall well-being.
