Associations between temperament profiles, eating habits and BMI-SDS development in early childhood

BackgroundEarly temperament may shape childrens eating behaviours and growth, yet longitudinal evidence supporting these associations remains limited. We aimed to identify latent temperament profiles from 6 months to 5 years and examine their associations with eating behaviours and longitudinal changes in BMI-SDS. MethodsData were drawn from the FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, a population based longitudinal study in Southwest Finland (n=2,286). Child temperament was assessed at 6 and 12 months, and at 2, 4, and 5 years using validated questionnaires. Eating behaviour was reported at age 2, and BMI-SDS was measured at ages 2 and 5. Latent profile analysis was conducted on repeated temperament measures. Associations with outcomes were examined using the BCH method. ResultsThree temperament profiles emerged: Dysregulated group (38%; low self-regulation, low to average positive reactivity, low negative reactivity), High self-regulation group (37%: high self-regulation, low negative reactivity, high to average positive reactivity), High negative reactivity group (24%: high negative reactivity, moderate positive reactivity, average self-regulation). The high self-regulation group showed more favorable eating behaviours (less snacking and fussiness, more willingness to taste new foods) compared to the other groups. High negative reactivity group showed greater decrease in BMI than Dysregulated group. Other BMI change differences were non-significant. ConclusionsDistinct temperament profiles were linked to early eating behaviours and, to a lesser extent, BMI development. Understanding these early temperament-based patterns may help identify children at risk for less favourable eating patterns and inform tailored early interventions to promote healthy eating and growth.