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Watching TV increases the risk of obesity

Time spent watching television is a significant predictor of obesity in childhood, suggests a recent study published in the International Journal of Obesity.

Television viewing should be considered as an important factor leading to childhood obesity, since children are less active and tend to eat while watching TV.

This common feeling is now confirmed by a study, led by researchers at New Zealand’s University of Otago, which shows that the 41% who suffer from overweight or obesity by the age of 26 are those who have watched most TV during their childhood. They assert that television consumption is even more a significant factor than the diet or physical activity.

This study confirms last years’ previous study by the same team of researchers which advised that children should not watch TV more than two hours per day in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

- For more information, see EPHA related section on obesity

Last modified on April 18 2006.

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Our readers have published these comments:

17 April 2006 02:34, by Sandrine U. (belgium)

Watching TV increases the risk of obesity

Dear Madam,

I’m writing concerning the article untitled "watching TV increases the risk of obesity". I was surprised by some of the statements that were put forward.

First, I agree on the fact that television viewing is an important factor leading to childhood obesity. I have to recognise that children spend more and more time in front of it. It makes them unactive and little motivated to do a physical exercise.

Second I was a little shocked to read that television is even more a significant factor than the diet or physical activity. I believe that the mixing of several factors bring children to obesity but not only television. Moreover, at home, the computer is taking the place of television. People can spend hours in front of it without moving.

Third, although we have to reduce time spent in front of TV, it seems to me that 2 hours a day is exaggerated. You can maintain a healthy lifestyle by watching TV during small periods several times a day. To me, as long as you avoid eating at the same time and you go out sometimes, it’s ok!

In conclusion, I would say that TV is not the most important factor of obesity. Parents should pay better attention to the dietary habits of their children.

Yours faithfully

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