Screen use during meals may impact children's eating habits

Experts are warning about the negative impacts of using screens, such as smartphones and televisions, during children's meals. According to nutritionist Anne Letícia Dias, constant distraction prevents children from recognizing natural hunger and satiety signals, reduces family interaction, and limits the learning experience associated with eating.

A systematic review published in JAMA Pediatrics in 2024 suggests that frequent screen exposure during meals can impair parent-child interaction and promote unhealthy eating habits. Furthermore, research in the journal Appetite indicates that children using screens during meals tend to consume more ultra-processed foods and fewer fruits and vegetables.

Health organizations, including the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics, recommend that meals occur in calm environments free from electronic distractions to foster better development and interaction between children and caregivers.