Far too many children spend most of their free time in front of the television or a computer. If they also drink sodas at the same time, they have a higher risk of developing obesity, according to a recent study out of Indiana University.
In the study, researchers followed children for 18 months, monitoring their physical activity levels, soda consumption and weight levels. The researchers discovered that children who drank soda and sweet beverages while they were watching television or playing computer games had higher rates of obesity. By contrast, children who were physically active and avoided sweet drinks had lower weight levels.
An additional finding from the study is that children who eat regular meals throughout the day also have lower and steady weight levels. According to lead study author, Dong-Chul Seo, “encouraging students to maintain a regular meal pattern with at least three meals a day appears to be a good strategy to help students achieve healthy weight.”
Studies have repeatedly found that both children and adults who eat several small meals throughout the day are better able to maintain healthy weight levels. When added to regular physical activity, several small meals during the day help the body to metabolize food and it is easier to achieve weight loss or maintain healthy weight levels.
Less Television, More Activity
Although it can be easy to get caught in the trap of being sedentary much of the day, it is important to encourage children to be active. Instead of allowing kids to drop in front of the television when they get home from school, encourage them to go outside and play with friends. Be a good role model for them and join in the fun.
Turning physical activity and exercise into fun activities for everyone makes them less of a burden for children. It also helps kids develop good habits that can carry over into adulthood. Children who are active during childhood are less likely to develop obesity as they become adults.
What kinds of physical family activities do you and your family enjoy? Is it hard to motivate your kids to get off the sofa and to become active?
– The Alternative Daily