Association of enjoyable childhood mealtimes with adult eating behaviors and subjective diet-related quality of life

Abstract

Objective: This study examined whether the experience of enjoyable mealtimes at home during childhood was related to eating behaviors and subjective diet-related quality of life in adulthood.

Methods: The study used data (n = 2,936) obtained from a research program about Shokuiku (food and nutrition education) conducted by the Cabinet Office in Japan in November and December 2009. The study employed logistic regression adjusted for all predictor variables.

Results: Enjoyable eating experiences in childhood were positively associated with a balanced diet (meals with 3 dishes; odds ratio [OR]: 1.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.45-2.19), eating vegetable dishes (OR: 1.71, 95% CI: 1.37-2.12), and subjective diet-related quality of life scores (OR: 3.84, 95% CI: 3.14-4.70) in adulthood.

Conclusions and implications: This study suggests that enjoyable eating experiences at home during childhood appear to promote healthy eating habits and the development of a positive diet-related quality of life in the future.