(September 9, 2008 - Insidermedicine) From the UK - According to research in the Archives of Disease in Childhood, the amount of exercise that children get has been overestimated. In a study of 130 children aged 6 and 7, the level of exercise that children are getting is around six times lower than previously reported in a national health survey. Children are only getting about 24 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity a day, when guidelines recommend at least 60 minutes each day.

From Kansas - According to research in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, nicotine's ability to enhance experiences may explain why it can be difficult to quit smoking. By studying rats, researchers found that nicotine can enhance the level of satisfaction experienced from things such as drinking coffee or spending time with friends. Previous research has primarily examined the drug itself, rather than its effect on other factors, and this new research may lead to more effective tobacco addiction treatments.

And finally, from Miami - According to research in the Archives of Internal Medicine, physical activity may prevent obesity in those genetically predisposed for high BMI. A study of over 700 people found that in those with above-average physical activity scores, the genes associated with BMI seemed to have no effect. This finding may lead to more personalized lifestyle recommendations for preventing obesity in those that are genetically susceptible.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.