Australian researchers studied 106 6- to 9-year-olds to determine how much energy they expended, whether their energy expenditure was related to physical activity, and whether there was a relationship between the amount of physical activity they participated in and their body fat percentages. The researchers visited the children's homes and taught them to use a specialized technique for measuring energy output over 10 days. The children's height and weight were measured, and body mass index (BMI, a measure of body fatness) was calculated. The percentage of body fat and muscle mass in the children was also calculated, and differences between boys and girls were evaluated.
With respect to weight, height, and BMI, boys did not differ significantly from girls. Girls had significantly higher measurements of fat mass and percentage of body fat, and boys had higher measurements of fat-free mass. In boys but not girls, more physical activity meant a lower BMI, percentage of body fat, and fat mass. Both boys and girls expended less energy than recommended by national and international health organizations. These findings suggest that lower physical activity levels may contribute to the rise in prevalence of childhood obesity, especially in boys.
What This Means to You: Childhood obesity is a worldwide problem with many negative health implications. According to the findings of this study, higher physical activity levels may lower BMI and body fat percentage. In a world of calorie-laden snack foods and easy armchair entertainment, getting enough exercise can be a challenge for all. Encourage your child to participate in vigorous physical activities, such as basketball, soccer, and swimming. And while you're at it, get some exercise yourself!
Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, October 2001
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