Oct

16

Dogs may help combat childhood obesity: study - ABC Online- Topic: Childhood Obesity News

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The study says dog ownership can decrease the chances of children being obese by as much as 50 per cent. They are called man’s best friend, but they could also be the best weapon in the fight against childhood obesity. A new study indicates dog ownership may also be the antidote to junk food, computer games and television which many say causes childhood obesity. Jo Salmon from Deakin University in Victoria was the lead researcher on the project which looked at obesity levels among kids with and without dogs. For 10 to 12-year-olds, 30 per cent who did not have a dog suffered weight problems compared to 27 per cent of their peers who have a pet. Dr Salmon says the health benefits come even if the children do not walk the dog regularly. Read Childhood Obesity

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