Can children do time-restricted eating?

Time-restricted eating can be safe for most people, including children, provided it is appropriately managed. For children, a feasible time-restricted eating schedule could involve eating within a 12 to 13-hour window each day. This aligns well with natural eating patterns linked to typically recommended sleep durations for children (nine to ten hours per night), allowing for a structured and healthy routine.

However, it's important to note that such an eating pattern should not be overly restrictive and should ensure that it does not lead to caloric deficiency, especially considering the nutritional needs of growing children. A sensible approach might involve gradually introducing children to regular and predictable meal times, without excessive fasting periods that could interfere with growth and development 1.

This approach can also be thought of as akin to basic health maintenance, similar to regular habits like brushing teeth. However, specific conditions such as type 1 diabetes would require careful management and monitoring. As always, when considering diet changes for children, it is advisable to consult healthcare professionals to ensure nutritional needs are met and to avoid potential impacts on growth 1.