The prevalence of obesity among children is increasing in many countries. Scientists have found that the likelihood of developing this condition depends not only on a child's diet and physical activity but also on the level of stress experienced by parents. This is reported by Pediatrics.
Researchers organized a three-month study involving 114 parents of children aged two to five years with overweight or obesity. The sample included families from various socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds. Parents were divided into two groups. The first group underwent a special stress reduction program: participants were taught mindfulness and self-regulation techniques, as well as given recommendations on nutrition and physical activity. The second group received only lifestyle consultations. Sessions were held once a week and lasted up to two hours.
During the study, scientists analyzed the stress levels of parents, the nature of their communication with children, and changes in the weight of their sons and daughters. After the course ended, observation continued for another three months. Parents who completed the stress management program reported reduced psychological tension, improved interaction with their children, and decreased consumption of unhealthy food. After three months, children from this group gained virtually no weight.
In the control group, there was no significant change: the stress levels of parents remained the same, and children significantly more often gained excess weight and were about six times more likely to fall into the obesity risk category. The authors of the study believe that programs aimed at reducing parental stress could be an effective complement to traditional childhood obesity prevention.
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