Background: Emerging evidence suggests that dysregulation of the gut microbiome can alter gut–brain axis which results in elevated levels of NPY that have been positively associated with the severity of Food Neophobia defined as the reluctance to eat or avoidance of unfamiliar foods, represents a component of picky eating behavior.1,2Among early-life factors capable of inducing such microbiome disruption, antibiotic exposure is particularly common and is a growing public health concern due to its potential role in antimicrobial resistance and long-term health effects.3 Given the nutritional and growth-related consequences associated with persistent food neophobia and the absence of clear evidence linking it to early-life antibiotic exposure, this study aims to examine its correlation, thereby addressing a critical gap in understanding modifiable factors influencing early eating behaviors.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among caregivers of children aged 4–10 years. The minimum sample size was calculated as 384 using Cochran’s formula, and a total of 387 participants were included. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered via online and offline modes, capturing demographic details, early-life antibiotic exposure, and food neophobia assessed using the validated Child Food Neophobia Scale (CFNS). We analysed the data with SPSS v23, presenting our findings using descriptive statistics and applying statistical tests, considering p < 0.05 as statistically significant.

Results: The prevalence of antibiotic exposure was 81.4%. The mean food neophobia score was significantly higher among children exposed to antibiotics compared to those not exposed (28.94 ± 6.83 vs 24.69 ± 7.26; p<0.001). Linear regression demonstrated that antibiotic exposure was a significant predictor of food neophobia score (B=4.245,p<0.001).

Conclusion: Our findings reveal that early exposure to antibiotics is not only common but is also linked to increased food neophobia in children, highlighting the need for rational antibiotic use.

Samreen Fatima is an MBBS candidate at Dr. VRK Women’s Medical College, Hyderabad, distinguished for her academic excellence with honors in Pathology and Forensic Medicine. She served as State Joint Secretary of IMA-MSN and College Head of AMSA, where she led academic and research initiatives, global health projects, and student engagement programs. Samreen has actively contributed to research presentations, including topics on emotional dependence on artificial intelligence and emerging vaccine technologies. She has also participated in national-level quizzes, symposiums, and hackathons, showcasing her analytical and problem-solving abilities. Beyond academia, she has demonstrated sustained commitment to community health through involvement in national vaccination drives, cancer awareness campaigns, and public health outreach programs. Known for her strategic leadership, analytical thinking, and ability to execute high-impact initiatives, she continues to build a portfolio that integrates clinical insight with forward-thinking healthcare solutions, building a body of work where knowledge transcends into impact, that extends beyond her time.