Caloric intake and activity levels are related in young children.
In this study the relationship between caloric intake and activity levels was examined in forty-three 18-month-old children. Caloric consumption was measured during a laboratory meal, and activity levels were assessed using an ambulatory monitor over a 24-hour period. Caloric intake was found to be significantly correlated with activity levels, such that children with a high caloric intake tended to have lower activity levels. This finding suggests that two risk factors influencing the development of obesity, caloric intake and physical activity levels, are likely to occur together in a subset of young children. A possible mechanism underlying this association is discussed.
Vara
L
L
Stanford University School of Medicine, CA 94305-5490.
Agras
S
S
D002652:Child Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D002149:Energy Intake / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D009765:Obesity / Q000209:etiology; D005082:Physical Exertion