As children get older, their grandmothers grow up at increased risk of becoming overweight.
According to a British study of 12.000 three-year-olds, the risk of obesity is 34% higher if grandparents take care of the child all day. Also, the risk of children being overweight is increased by 15%.
On the contrary, according to the study, children who go to kindergarten or have nannies who take care of them at home are not at risk of gaining extra pounds.
The study was conducted by researchers at University College London (UCL), who were quick to point out that "very little attention has been paid so far to the impact of caring for children on their weight, although it affects both diet and nutrition." physical exercise. "
According to the research, the probability of obesity increases in families of higher socio-economic level.
The risk of a child's weight gain is higher than normal (but less so than caring for grandparents) even when the child is supervised by friends and other relatives, but only when this happens daily.
Because parents often consider grandparents to be the best alternative for child care when they are away from work, the study recommends that older people have advice on nutrition and exercise so that they do not harm themselves. they realize, their grandchildren.
The study is published in the International Journal of Obesity.