A round up of the latest news regarding childhood obesity.
Antibiotics and obesity
Researchers found that infants who received antibiotics between birth and the age of 6 months were 22 percent more likely to be obese at the age of three. The effect was found regardless of whether the parents were obese, or what the child ate. Researchers emphasize that the relationship is not causal, and that these results do not mean that infants should not receive needed anti-biotic. Rather, doctors should simply reconsider whether an antibiotic is really necessary before prescribing it.
Lack of self control tied to childhood weight gain
Preschoolers who have less self-control and patience when waiting for treats weight slightly more when they become adults. A follow-up survey was mailed to adults who were part of “delayed gratification” studies in the 1960s and 1970s. Though the effect was not large, researchers say this may show which children have a tendency towards weight problems, and suggests an area in which skill-building could benefit children's future health.
