Wide-open spaces; that's what kids need, especially ones that are at risk of being overweight.
New research from Canada shows kids who live near public recreation areas, playgrounds and sports fields are healthier. They say those kids are more likely to walk to school and remain physically active in their free time.
It may seem obvious, but experts say city planners may want to consider this when making improvements. Results were similar regardless of family income or level of education.
The study focuses on kids who were at risk of becoming obese because at least one of their parents was extremely overweight.
Researchers at the Sainte-Justine Research Center and Universite de Montreal plan to follow these kids over the next decade.
