Obese children may shed weight by playing video games

According to a study conducted by the University of Auckland, obese children may shed weight by playing active video games using interactive wireless technology.

The study of 323 overweight and obese children aged 10 to 14 years revealed ‘a small but definite positive effect on body mass index’ among active gamers.

“Sedentary activities, such as video gaming, have been shown to be independently associated with obesity,” Xinhua quoted Dr Ralph Maddison, principal investigator, as saying.

“Although the results on body composition were small, the study findings showed the technology had the potential to be a useful tool in "health interventions," Maddison added.

The Active video gaming concept is highly useful for children having less access to outdoors games due to issues such as overcrowding or severe winters.

The study could encourage researchers and health professionals to join forces with gaming developers in designing a new generation of active health-promoting video games.