A dynamic approach to health
Keeping moving from childhood can make a difference in long-term health, according to a study carried out by the Universities of Bristol and Exeter in collaboration with the University of Eastern Finland, and published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. ‘.
The risk of sedentary lifestyle
The study, based on data from Children of the 90s at the University of Bristol, looked at 792 children over a follow-up period of 11 to 24 years. It found that an increase in time spent in sedentary activities was correlated with higher blood insulin levels, especially among young people who were overweight or obese.
Light physical activity as a solution
Counteracting this trend, it was found that light physical activity during the day reduced the risk of excess insulin by 20%. Additionally, those who maintained a higher level of light physical activity showed less insulin resistance.
Physical Activity Outlook
Although moderate to vigorous physical activity also offered benefits, they were less pronounced. Previous results had already linked a sedentary lifestyle with obesity and other health problems, highlighting the need to encourage active lifestyles from an early age.
Transforming the landscape of children’s health
Researchers point out that childhood sedentary lifestyle should be addressed seriously, being one of the main causes of health problems such as excess insulin, obesity and inflammation. The study highlights the importance of implementing measures that promote physical activity from childhood to guarantee a healthier future.
Study conclusions
This study, the largest to date, analyzed movement habits and glucose and insulin levels in a large population of young people. The results underline the need to combat a sedentary lifestyle from an early age to prevent a series of health problems in the future.
Call to action
Dr. Andrew Agbaje, an expert in clinical epidemiology and child health at the University of Eastern Finland, warns about the dangers of sedentary lifestyles in children. He stresses the importance of recognizing this trend as a threat to public health and taking steps to encourage active lifestyles from an early age.
