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Published on: December 16, 2010
Energy intake during activity enhanced video game play
Robin R Mellecker1, Lorraine Lanningham-Foster, James A Levine
1Institute of Human Performance, University of Hong Kong, Room 117 1/F, Patrick Manson Building, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China. robinmel@hku.hk
Appetite
|July 27, 2010
Summary
Adding physical activity to video games does not change snack intake. Children consumed high calories during gaming, emphasizing the need to limit snacking during video game play.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Behavioral Science
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Video gaming is a popular sedentary activity among children.
- Concerns exist regarding high energy intake and associated health risks during gaming.
- The impact of interactive gaming on energy consumption requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if incorporating a motor component into video gaming affects children's energy consumption.
- To assess energy intake consistency during free-choice video gaming sessions.
- To compare snacking behavior between seated and activity-enhanced video gaming.
Main Methods:
- An experimental design with 9-13 year olds was employed.
- Participants engaged in 'seated video game' and 'activity-enhanced video game' conditions.
- Snacks were provided ad libitum (freely chosen) during all gaming sessions.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in snack energy intake was observed between seated and activity-enhanced video gaming conditions.
- Children consumed approximately 374-383 kcal/hour during both gaming conditions.
- Energy intake during video gaming was 166% higher than during resting conditions.
Conclusions:
- The addition of a motor component to video gaming does not alter snack energy intake.
- High caloric consumption during video gaming, regardless of activity level, necessitates strategies to restrict snacking.
- Future research should focus on interventions to manage energy intake during recreational screen time.
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