Researchers Study Picky Eaters, Eating Disorder Link

DURHAM, N.C.Most people relate the term picky eating to children and consider it a habit one eventually grow out of as he or she ages. And while many adults can name a food they dislike or just will not eat, the medical world is seeing an uptick in adults where unusual or picky eating leads to distress or problems.

In fact, a recent Wall Street Journal article noted that a taskforce categorizing eating disorders for the 2013 version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is considering recognizing selective eating as a disorder that could apply to adults and children.

Because scientists know very little about the range of adult eating behaviors and problems, Duke University and the University of Pittsburgh last week launched The Food F.A.D. Study (Finicky Eating in Adults), an online portal where people to log in and report on their unusual eating preferences and habits. The researchers hope the answers help them understand the range of eating difficulties that adults experience and help lead to the development of effective strategies to help individuals cope with problems associated with eating.