Kids love their screen time.  But more than 3 hours a day could be harming their health by possibly increasing their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.  This information is according to research published in the Archives of Diseases in Childhood finding that children who spend more than 3 hours a day watching TV, playing video games, using a tablet, smartphone or basically any electronic device with a “screen” are more likely to be overweight to obese putting them at risk of insulin resistance.

This study sought out to discover what association there was between screen time and risk factors for type 2 diabetes in children.  A survey of almost 4,500 British children aged 9-10 found that almost one in five or 18% spent more than three hours in front of a screen every day.  Thirteen percent stated they spent between two to three hours daily while 37% only used devices with a screen for one hour each day.

The results of the research showed that the children reporting more than 3 hours a day of screen time had higher levels of body fat from measurements of skinfold thickness and fat mass index in addition to having more insulin resistance than the children who spent less hours in front of a screen. 

What is insulin resistance?

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas helping to unlock the body’s cells so that sugar (glucose) from the food we eat can be used by cells for energy.  Insulin resistance is when the pancreas is working overtime to produce more insulin because the body’s cells are resistant to the effects of insulin.  Even though there is sufficient insulin in the bloodstream, the body’s cells do not respond or are resistant to becoming unlocked allowing glucose in the blood into the cells. Therefore, glucose levels become elevated that can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Concerns over too much screen time

Too much time spent in front of “screens” has been a concern of many pediatricians over the years.  With the onslaught of various electronic devices with a screen captivating our youth’s time, limiting the number of hours allowed using them seems more than reasonable. 

There are many considerations to take into account when deciding what is appropriate for children and screen time – risk of obesity due to less physical activity, reduced sleep, in addition to cognitive, language and social/emotional delays. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics has voiced their opinion on screen time usage for children of all ages.  Their recommendation is no screen time for any child younger than 18 months to 24 months of age, for kids ages 2 to 5 limit screen use to one hour per day of high-quality programming, keep bedrooms, mealtimes and play interaction between children and parents screen free and no screen time one hour before bedtime.

What parents can do to reduce screen time

·No TV or electronic devices with a screen should be allowed in children’s bedrooms.  This can interfere with sleep, lead to overeating and more sedentary behavior.

·Establish a screen time schedule. 

·Encourage other activities – reading, doing puzzles or board games, playing outside, making crafts, or spending time with family.

·Only allow screen time that is educational and nonviolent.

·Parents need to practice what they preach – be mindful of their own screen time usage spent surfing the net or watching TV.  Put down cell phones and be actively engaged with your child.

·Make it a rule no one is allowed to have a device with a screen at mealtimes or one hour before bedtime.