Washington: A new study has found that parents' work schedules may have an impact on their adolescent children's eating habits.
According to Molly Martin, associate professor of sociology and demography, kids with parents who spend more time at home, especially at breakfast and dinner time, have healthier eating behaviors and at times, even better exercise habits than most adolescents.
Martin said that most parents might not consider eating breakfast as a health-related behavior, but it is one of the most important meals that helps kids maintain metabolism throughout the day.
She also highlighted that kids who see their parents' skipping breakfasts may be more likely to do the same, which can be harmful as having breakfast can have long-term health benefits.
Regular meals at home can help children and adolescents avoid weight problems and can help control portion sizes, and avoid eating junk food later in the day.
The study will be presented at the annual meeting of the American Sociological Association.
