Encouraging children to don their gym clothing and exercise can reduce their risk of developing heart problems later in life, a study has suggested.

Researchers from the Regenstrief Institute in Indianapolis found that overweight children whose body mass index (BMI) increases are more at risk of high blood pressure than those who are a normal-weight but experience the same BMI rise.

Commenting on the research, European Society of Cardiology spokesperson Professor Jose Ramon Gonzales-Juanatey said: "It is very important for everyone … to understand the significant cardiovascular risk caused by childhood obesity and the simple fact that weight reduction and exercise can have a major and positive impact."

A paper on the study argues that even a slight reduction in BMI significantly lower blood pressure in overweight children and that just a small increase could put them at much greater risk of higher blood pressure.

Back in August, research conducted by the University of Buffalo in the US suggested that children who walk to school are less likely to develop high blood pressure and, therefore, heart disease later in life.

Posted by Sue Wallis ADNFCR-2569-ID-800121539-ADNFCR

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