Study Finds Parental Stress Linked to Obesity in Children

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/12/131206111707.htm

Dec. 6, 2013 — Parental stress is linked to weight gain in children, according to a new study from St. Michael's Hospital.

The study found that children whose parents have high levels of stress have a Body Mass Index, or BMI, about 2 per cent higher than those whose parents have low levels of stress. Children with higher parental stress also gained weight at a 7 per cent higher rate during the study period than other children.

Those figures may sound low, said lead author Dr. Ketan Shankardass, but they're significant because they are happening in children, whose bodies and eating and exercise habits are still developing. Plus, if that weight gain continues and is compounded over a lifetime, it could lead to serious obesity and health issues.

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