New Study Investigates 'Birth' Of Food Preferences

A new CNRC pilot study designed to discover just how early in life eating behaviors emerge could one day help new parents raise healthier eaters.

The "Babies First" study, being conducted by CNRC behavioral nutritionist Dr. Jennifer Fisher, is currently recruiting 44 Houston-area new mothers and their 3- to 12-month-old breast-fed or formula-fed babies. The study requires a single, short visit to the CNRC and provides a $50 gift certificate to compensate mothers for their time and cooperation.

"Babies begin life consuming a single food, either breast milk or infant formula. But, by one year of age, their diets tend to be very similar to those of adults," said Fisher, who is also an assistant professor of pediatrics at Baylor. "With this study, we hope to begin to discover the behavioral factors that influence this amazing progression."

Fisher became interested in working with mothers and babies at the CNRC following years of studying differences in food preferences and eating behaviors among 4- and 5-year-old preschoolers at Penn State University.

"It is generally assumed that eating behaviors like food preferences are established in early childhood," she said. "Yet, I believe it's unlikely that younger children or even infants all have similar eating behaviors until they become preschoolers - when like magic - noticeable differences suddenly appear."

In her new CNRC study, Fisher will monitor how babies' food preferences and food intake, as well as other eating behaviors, change during the first year of life, and how these factors relate to growth.

"I believe that this study could help fill an important gap in our understanding of how children's food preferences and behaviors like "picky eating" versus "healthy eating" develop," she said.

Houston-area new mothers interested in participating in Dr. Fisher's BABIES FIRST are encouraged to call the study's recruitment hotline: (713) 798-6740.