Mumbai: A Mumbai-based doctor has raised concerns about a growing parenting habit children eating meals while watching screens warning that it could lead to serious long-term health issues, including Fatty Liver Disease and Insulin Resistance.

Dr Manan Vora, a health educator and co-founder of Nutribyte Wellness, highlighted the risks in a recent post on Instagram, stating that children are increasingly becoming dependent on screens to finish their meals a trend that may be reshaping their relationship with food.

A shift from mindful eating to distracted habits

Traditionally, mealtimes were an opportunity for families to connect and practise mindful eating. However, with the widespread use of smartphones and tablets, many children now rely on screens for distraction during meals.

According to Dr Vora, this habit may weaken a child’s ability to recognise natural hunger and fullness cues, leading to mindless eating and a higher risk of overeating.

Early signs of serious health conditions

The expert warned that children as young as 10 to 13 years are increasingly showing signs of metabolic disorders such as fatty liver and insulin resistance.

These conditions, once largely associated with adults, are now being observed in younger age groups, raising concerns about early-onset lifestyle diseases.

How screens affect eating behaviour

Food becomes linked with entertainment

Children who regularly eat while watching screens begin to associate food with constant stimulation. Over time, this reduces their ability to eat without external distractions.

Dr Vora explained that this behaviour is similar to mindless snacking, where individuals consume food without being aware of quantity or satiety.

Disruption of hunger hormones

Screen exposure, particularly blue light, can interfere with key hormones that regulate hunger and sleep. It may suppress melatonin, which controls sleep cycles, and disrupt ghrelin and leptin — hormones responsible for hunger and fullness.

This imbalance can result in increased appetite, sugar cravings, and a reduced sense of satiety, encouraging overeating.

The dopamine reward loop

Another concern highlighted by the doctor is the “dopamine loop.” Both screen use and junk food trigger the release of dopamine, the brain’s reward chemical.

When combined, they can reinforce addictive behaviour, conditioning children to crave unhealthy foods whenever they are exposed to screens.

Long-term impact on health and habits

Experts warn that such patterns, if continued, may lead to obesity, poor dietary habits, and chronic health conditions later in life. More importantly, they can alter how children perceive food — shifting it from nourishment to entertainment.

Dr Vora emphasised that these habits are formed early and can persist into adulthood if not addressed.

What parents can do

Health experts suggest simple but effective steps:

• Encourage screen-free meals


• Promote family dining and conversation


• Help children recognise hunger and fullness cues


• Limit junk food consumption during screen time


• Establish consistent meal routines

Conclusion

While using screens during meals may seem convenient for parents, experts caution that it could have lasting consequences on a child’s physical and behavioural health. Developing mindful eating habits early on is key to preventing metabolic disorders and ensuring long-term well-being.