Is Your Child Gaining Weight? Check What They Do Before Bed

If your children are gaining more weight than what is healthy and desirable, a new study suggests that you should examine what exactly they do before going to bed. The researchers found that children who used screens before sleep—whether a smartphone, computer, or television—were at a higher risk of obesity.

Researchers asked the parents of 234 children aged 8 to 17 to provide information about their children's sleep and technology use habits, as well as their sleep, activity, and dietary patterns.

After analyzing the data, the researchers found several negative effects associated with using different technologies right before bed.

"We found a connection between higher weight and increased use of technology. Additionally, children who used more technology close to bedtime slept less at night and were more tired in the morning—a situation that is in itself a risk for obesity," says researcher Caitlin Fuller.

Children who were allowed to use a computer or smartphone before bed slept on average one hour less each night compared to other children who did not have access to this technology before sleep.

Another risk factor was leaving smartphones in the child's room, causing them to occasionally wake up at night and check for new messages on the phone.

Fuller states that the study's findings validate the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatricians regarding screen time for children and adolescents. The academy recommends that parents set clear boundaries for technology use, prohibit children from eating with a phone or