Amid growing concerns of escalating childhood obesity, a new study has added another dimension to the causes of obesity in children- Inadequate Sleep.
According to a study conducted by researchers from University of Michigan, insufficient sleep in children could promote obesity.Statistics from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development has revealed that children who did not get enough sleep carried a greater chance of being overweight, notwithstanding the body mass index.
Delving into the possible reasons for this, Dr. James Perrin, Pediatrician of Mass General Hospital for Children, said, "There are certain hormones that have a sort of 24-hour cycle and maybe by interrupting sleep and its normal processes you interrupt those hormones that may have a role in growth and weight especially."
Sleep and rest is as important for children as it is for adults. Insight has shown that kids who sleep less feel restless throughout the day; they may also binge on the wrong foods to derive momentary comfort. More research is required to confirm this speculation.
Parents are advised to maintain a strict routine of sleep and wake up times for their children. Further, kids would relax and fall asleep on time if they are not stimulated by electronic toys, television or computer games at the wrong times. It might be a good idea to keep such temptations away from the bedroom, experts advise.
Source-Medindia
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