The sedentary way of life has become so widespread and so different from what nature dictates that it has become necessary to warn from the medical associations about its risks. We and our children spend a lot of time in front of the screens, sitting, without moving, so much that health can suffer.
And, although the multiple benefits of physical activity are known, our society tends to be increasingly sedentary and that is why obesity figures grow alarmingly. Today we are going to see what pediatricians say about it, with their recommendations on times to be devoted to physical activity and stay in front of the screens.
WHO is being one of the strongest voices pointing out the risks, since physical inactivity is a global health problem. According to the Organization, up to 60% of the population does not perform the physical activity necessary to obtain health benefits, with the risks that this entails.
In the document entitled "Childhood Obesity: Food, physical activity and the environment", prepared by pediatricians and published in the Spanish Association of Primary Care Pediatrics, a table of recommendations for physical activity and screen time (mobile phones, tablets) , television, computer, video games ...) that can be summarized in the following.
The table was made following the recommendations of the Ministry of Health (which coincide with the WHO and other associations of Pediatrics) and is aimed at healthy children, divided by age.
Recommendations of physical activity and screen time by age
Under five years of age who are not yet walking. Physical activity of any intensity is recommended several times a day. Reducing sedentary lifestyle means minimizing the time they spend sitting or sitting in chairs or carts, when they are awake, less than an hour in a row. It is not recommended to spend time in front of a screen for children under two years of age (the American Academy of Pediatrics warned that it was not good for children to "interact" with screens before 18 months).
Under five who are already walking. Physical activity at least 180 minutes a day, of any intensity. The time spent sitting less than one hour in a row must also be minimized. From two to five years should limit the time in front of the screens to less than an hour a day.
Children from five to 17 years old. Physical activity at least 60 minutes a day, of moderate to vigorous intensity. It is advised to include, at least three days a week, vigorous intensity activities that strengthen muscles and improve bone mass. Prolonged sedentary periods must be reduced. Encourage active transportation and outdoor activities. Limit the time of use of screens for recreational purposes to a maximum of two hours a day.
Do you think you comply with these recommendations? Are you trying? The important thing is to be aware of our deficiencies (if any) and the importance of physical activity to instill in our children healthy habits and try to carry them out as much as possible, when possible, every time a little more .
It is a good time to remember the advice on physical activity in children prepared by the Physical Activity Working Group of the AEP and by the General Council of Graduates in Physical Education and in Physical Activity and Sports Sciences, where the performing moderate or vigorous physical activity for a minimum of 60 minutes daily.
And as the example is our best ally, remember: everyone to move, we will try to be an active family so that our children grow healthier. There are many alternatives to sitting for a long time and to the screens so that there is more variety in our lives.
Photos | iStock
More information | AEPAP
In Babies and more | Obesity and sedentary lifestyle, two allies against the health of our children and we do very little to avoid it, why we should do more hours of Physical Education in schools
