The relationship between obesity in childhood and extent of physical exertion has taken a perplexing twist according to a recent study based on Scottish children. The bottom line of the study scoffs at the underlying connection between the extent of physical exercise in children and child-obesity rates. The finding hovered around the importance of genetic composition in combination with socio-economic conditions, which have a bearing on child obesity, rather than physical exercise or food habits. The study also implied that couch potatoes in front of the television or computer need not be put off with the obesity implications of such inactive endeavors, because they do not cause the extent of harm as perceived.

The underlying message of this study might give a wrong message to the readers and is certainly far from the truth. If it was just genetic predisposition, other countries too would show alarming child obesity rates. The benefits of exercise are reflected in good health, offsetting stress and mental illnesses. Therefore it becomes imperative that children are taught these habits of regular exercise and healthy diet at a tender age, so that it gets deep rooted in their psyche.