Moms React to Study Linking Working Mothers to Childhood Obesity

As the rate of working moms has drastically increased over the past 35 years to 70 percent, so has the childhood obesity rate, according to new research.

A study published in the journal Child Development suggests that the longer a mother is employed, the more likely her children are to be overweight or obese. In fact, the study estimates that with each five-month period a mother is employed, her child will gain one extra pound above normal. Additionally, sixth graders with working mothers were six times more likely to be overweight than middle schoolers with stay-at-home mothers.

The study indirectly blames mothers with busy careers for the extra belly fat their kids have. However, it ultimately explains that it is the busy family environment in which children are raised that leads them to fast food dinners and fried chicken lunches.

We asked our users if their kids were affected by their professional life. Find out what they had to say.

Hayley-Ann C.
So all mothers should give up work!!! I don't think so, Who will put the healthy food on the table then. Most family's have to work to be able to afford good organic foods. Plus it set an example to kids if the want to make better choices with the future they should work for it.

Angela S.
I am a working mother and have 2 very healthy children -- neither is overweight at all. They are both athletic, eat very healthy and are strong individuals! This is ridiculous.

Shelly O.
One more reason for us working moms to feel guilty? Geez!


Sherrell P.
It's unfortunate, but with no one to monitor snacks or not supplying good alternatives, with the excuse of too busy to cook; fast food/junk food- is often the chosen way to feed the family.

Linda B.
Hey how come it is not the working dads fault?

Allyson T.
Not only am I a working mother, I am a single mother. My son is on a swim team, football team, plays outside, rides his bike, he's not a picky eater, loves veggies, drinks water and juices. I don't think it has anything to do with working mothers or parents, it's more LAZY parents who don't put forth the effort to ensure they're OWN kids are taken care of properly.

Melissa G.
I know plenty of overweight kids who have moms who do not work. What they r saying is bogus.

Kimberly J.
That's BS! I am a working mother, I had a working mother, and I know many working mothers! None of our children are overweight!

Linda W.
I would think a working mom would help mold children in to healthier, active and to make better choices. What moms don't work? Kind of a slap in the face! So a mom who chooses welfare instead of working benefits their children?! Think not! It is just as crazy as blaming a school lunch on a child's obesity. Its what the parents provide them at home, not what the school provides.