Why does high-speed Internet use cause obesity?

A new study has shown that high-speed internet use is not only changing the way we connect, but is also silently affecting our health, particularly leading to the risk of obesity.

Fast Internet and its link to sedentary habits

According to researchers from Monash University, Melbourne and RMIT (Australia), when accessing the Internet faster, people tend to spend more time online, significantly reducing the minimum physical activities recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

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"High-speed internet leads to a sedentary lifestyle, which reduces metabolic rate and increases the risk of obesity. Snacking while surfing the web or using home delivery services further exacerbates the problem," explains Dr Klaus Ackermann, who led the study.

Alarming figures

The study, published in the journal Economics & Human Biology, analysed data from the HILDA survey and Australia's national broadband network, the NBN. The results showed:

1. For every 1% increase in NBN connectivity, the average BMI of the population increases by 1.57 units.
2. Obesity rates increased to 6.6%.

This trend is not limited to Australia. A study in Türkiye this year also found a link between internet use and increased BMI. A 2019 report from the US also found that high-speed internet users were 47% more likely to be overweight or obese than those with average internet speeds.

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Reason from living habits

In addition to keeping users in front of screens for too long, high-speed Internet is also changing the way we consume services:

1. Online communication: Limit face-to-face meetings.
2. Delivery service: The habit of ordering food instead of cooking or traveling to a restaurant.
3. Watching content: Time spent watching videos, playing games or surfing the internet skyrockets, reducing opportunities for exercise.

Warning from the expert

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Obesity not only causes cosmetic problems, but also increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and diabetes. Dr. Ackermann emphasizes:

"Overexposure to computer networks is a matter of concern. Users need to understand that physical activity plays an important role in balancing life and protecting health."

High-speed internet is a powerful tool, but its convenience can make us forget about staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Consider balancing your online time with outdoor activities or sports to avoid falling into the cycle of inactivity that the internet can bring.

Kareem Winters

Update 09 December 2024