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The Psychology of Eating: Insights from Nina Crowley

Jill Castle and Nina Crowley, a registered dietitian and PhD in health psychology delve into the psychology of eating, diet culture, and the delicate balance of raising children with a healthy relationship with food.


The Psychology of Eating with Nina Crowley

The Psychology of Eating

Q: Nina, what does the psychology of eating mean to you?

Nina Crowley: The psychology of eating encompasses a range of factors, from our behavioral patterns and psychological traits to our past childhood experiences and parental influences. It’s a nuanced field that doesn’t fit neatly into soundbites. While there are general healthy eating patterns, each person’s relationship with food is unique and personal. As dietitians, we strive to understand these complexities and help individuals navigate their unique food journeys.

Jill Castle: Yes, it’s definitely a multifaceted topic. I often see parents struggling to understand their children’s eating behaviors and how their own relationships with food impact their parenting. It’s essential to recognize and address these factors to foster healthy eating habits in children.


Food Shaming and Diet Culture

Q: How do you feel about the recent discussions around food shaming and diet culture in the media?

Nina Crowley: The recent attention to food shaming and diet culture brings a mixed bag of feelings. While it’s good that these topics are being discussed, the narrative often misses the mark. Food shaming is a reality, and it’s crucial to move beyond simplistic labels of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ foods. Dietitians play a significant role in promoting a balanced approach to eating, focusing on empathy and understanding individual circumstances, rather than imposing rigid food guidelines.

Jill Castle: Absolutely. Parents today are bombarded with conflicting messages about food, which can lead to extreme biases and anxieties about feeding their children. It’s important to debunk these myths and provide practical, empathetic advice that supports a healthy relationship with food.


Food Anxieties and Feeding Challenges

Q: How can parents navigate their own food anxieties while raising children with a healthy relationship to food?

Nina Crowley: It’s a challenging balance. Parents must recognize their own food rules and biases, which can inadvertently affect their children. It’s about finding a middle ground — ensuring children have a variety of foods without making controversial foods completely off-limits. For instance, incorporating treats in moderation can prevent the an over-focus on these foods.

Jill Castle: That’s key. I often work with parents to reprogram their thinking, helping them see that a bit of flexibility and trust in their child’s natural hunger cues can go a long way. It’s about creating a positive food environment without rigid restrictions.


Practical Tips for Handling Mealtime Challenges

Q: What practical tips can you provide to parents who may have picky eaters or busy schedules?

Nina Crowley: Here are a few strategies:

  • Trust and Flexibility: Trust your child’s hunger and fullness cues. Allow them to explore different foods without pressure.
  • Balanced Meals: Aim for balanced meals that include a mix of proteins, vegetables, fruit, dairy, and whole grains, but don’t stress over perfection.
  • Involving Kids: Involve kids in meal planning and preparation. This can reduce mealtime battles and increase their interest in food.
  • Consistency in Family Meals: Make family meals a priority. This not only fosters healthy eating habits but also strengthens family bonds.

Supporting the Teenagers’ Dietary Needs

Q: How can parents support teenagers, especially those with busy schedules and dietary restrictions, like ADHD or food allergies?

Nina Crowley: Teenagers need structure, especially those with ADHD. Ensuring they have high-calorie, nutrient-dense meals and snacks is crucial. For instance, having a substantial meal ready when they come home from school can make a big difference. Also, a consistent family mealtime, even if they aren’t hungry, sets a strong foundation for healthy eating habits.

Jill Castle: I totally agree. Incorporating a balanced snack or meal after school and emphasizing the importance of family meals, even amidst busy schedules, helps provide the necessary nutrients and establishes a sense of routine and stability.


The psychology of eating is a complex and deeply personal subject influenced by various factors, including genetics, parenting, diet culture, and individual experiences. By understanding and addressing these elements, parents can foster healthier eating habits and relationships with food for their children.

Resources:

An Eating Schedule for Kids

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Jill Castle, MS, RD

I like empowering parents to help their children and teens thrive at every size with realistic advice centered on healthful habits around food, feeding, nutrition and health behaviors. As a pediatric dietitian and author, my goal is to share strategies and realistic advice to help you raise a healthy and happy child through my articles and podcast.