Link Between Divorce and Weight Gain in Children

Children with divorced parents run an increased risk of being overweight, according to a recent study.

The study, by researchers at the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, found that there were 50% more overweight children with divorced parents, compared to children with married parents.

This difference was particularly noticeable amongst boys – the study didn’t seem to find evidence of similar obesity levels amongst girls.

“The reason for these differences is probably related to both diet and physical activity but we have not collected data on this in this study. However, we did find that maternal education does not explain the differences,” explained researcher, Anna Biehl.

Researchers had also intended to investigate any possible link between the separation of cohabiting couples and weight gain in children, because of the increasing number of cohabiting-parent families. However this was apparently not possible based on the information available.

Contact our Family Solicitors in Aberdeen

If you need help with a family law matter, including advice on divorce or separation, contact our specialist solicitors on 01224 370 028 or fill in our enquiry form today.