Children watching television in their bedroom are more likely to become obese than others according to the results of a study published in the journal “Journal of the American Medical Association” (JAMA) Pediadrics.
Scientists at Dartmouth University analyzed medical and behavioral data from 3,055 children between the ages of 10 and 14 and their parents. These witnesses responded to a telephone survey which revealed a surprising figure: 60% of children have a TV in their room.
By comparing their weight and BMI, scientists found that these children weighed an average of 400 grams more than those who did not. In addition their BMI (Body Mass Index) increased by half a point in two years and 0.75 points in four years compared to other children.
The television in the room promotes a sedentary lifestyle
Television in the bedroom promotes sedentary lifestyle and lack of sleep, two aggravating factors for overweight and obesity. A British study by the Medical Research Council at the University of London found that “because of screens, only one in two children exercise daily”. In addition, screen time is detrimental to the quality and quantity of sleep. Lack of sleep impacts the brain as a whole and particularly disrupts the area that manages satiety and eating. Little or not enough sleep would therefore make you fat. A previous American study from the University of California also pointed out that “the most caloric foods were particularly sought after by people deprived of sleep, hence the link between lack of sleep, weight gain and obesity. “
This situation is alarming in view of the increased risks of chronic disease linked to a sedentary lifestyle and obesity. Remember that the WHO recommends practicing at least 60 minutes of activity per day for children aged 5 to 17 and at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week for adults.
