The problem of obesity is considered dangerous for people of all ages. Studies have found it to increase the risks of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, metabolic disorders, and even cancer. Not only this, if obesity increases in people who already have heart problems, it can also increase the risk of fatal conditions like heart attacks. This is why people of all ages are advised to make continuous efforts to keep their weight under control.
Health experts say the problem of obesity in children is increasing rapidly which can cause many types of diseases at an early age. Generally, excessive consumption of junk and processed foods is considered to be the main factor in increasing obesity. But in recent studies, researchers have said that this is not the only reason for obesity in children, a disturbance in lifestyle is causing obesity to increase rapidly.
Increasing danger among Indian children
Based on several studies conducted in recent years, researchers estimate that by 2030, one in 10 obese children will be from India. After China and the United States, the risk of this problem is seen to be higher in India. Similarly, a report published in The Lancet in March 2024 revealed that obesity globally has increased 4.5 times from 1990 to 2022 and there may be a risk of it increasing even further.
Researchers said that apart from junk-processed foods, increased screen time of children can be a major factor in this problem.
What did the study find?
Children and teenagers who spend more time watching TV, mobile, or computer are at risk of reduced oxygen use during exercise, high blood pressure, and obesity. To understand this theory, researchers started tracking hundreds of children in New Zealand and followed them until they were 45 years old.
The author of the study, Dr. Bob Hancox, says that children who had more screen time had less physical activity and their eating habits also got disturbed.
Measures necessary to reduce screen time
Evidence from the study shows that during increased exposure to screens, children and adolescents also eat more high-calorie items (chips-cookies), and reduce physical activity, which has been considered a factor in increasing obesity. Apart from this, the blue light emitted from the screen affects sleep, which can also cause problems related to weight gain.
Similar side effects have been seen on the health of children as well as youth and adults.
Will have to improve the routine
Health experts said, that to reduce the increased screen time and the obesity and other side effects caused by it, more attention should be paid to physical activity like playing outside, and cycling in the daily routine. To reduce the risk of obesity and maintain good health, children must take an interest in being active from an early age. To keep weight under control and prevent it from increasing, it is necessary that you also improve the quality of sleep.
(PC: ISTOCK)
