How Do Kids Stay Slim?
A study of 5,500 children who agreed to wear a motion sensor device showed that those who exercised more were less likely to be obese and that short bursts of intense activity seemed to be the most helpful.

Children who did 15 minutes a day of moderate exercise, equivalent to a brisk walk, were 50 percent less likely than inactive children to be obese; the research was reported in the Public Library of Science journal PLoS Medicine in March, 2007.

Andy Ness of the University of Bristol and colleagues wrote - "Our data suggest that higher intensity physical activity may be more important than total activity,"

Chris Riddoch of Britain's Bath University, who worked on the study commented - "This study provides some of the first robust evidence on the link between physical activity and obesity in children. We know that diet is important, but what this research tells us is that we mustn't forget about activity. It's been really surprising to us how even small amounts of exercise appear to have dramatic results."

The less the children exercised, the more likely they were to be obese, the study found. These associations suggest even a modest increase of 15 minutes moderate and vigorous physical activity might result in an important reduction in the prevalence of overweight and obesity," the researchers wrote.

Small changes made now can make a big difference in the lives of your children - teach them healthy habits that can last a lifetime. A quick game of catch, a short bike ride or shooting a few hoops everyday is all it takes. A little more activity and some healthy snacks can make all the difference in the world.

If you have a child or teenager who wants to lose weight, we encourage you to consider treating them to a visit with our Weight Loss Specialist. This a wonderful program of whole foods, water and walking can get them started in the right direction.