Boffins are warning that sitting in front of your computer can make you crave sweets and chocolate. (Sitting anywhere can make me crave them. sub.ed.)
It was thought that computer users turned into blimps which can eclipse the sun because they don't need to move much. But apparently the mental stress of computer work triggers changes in blood sugar and hormone levels that trick the brain into thinking it has worked off lots of calories that need replaced.
Researcher Jean-Philippe Chaput told the International Congress on Obesity in Stockholm that computer games and TV watching have the same effect. Apparently office workers who want to keep trim should take regular screen breaks type while standing up. Dr Chaput, of the University of Copenhagen, started to research the subject after noticing how his supervisor snacked on chocolate biscuits.
He worked out that those who go flat out on their computers ate an extra 230 calories when given access to a buffet afterwards. It looks like computer work made blood sugar levels fluctuate wildly and hunger hormones to rise. As a result, the students gorged on food they didn't need.
Boffins warn
Nick Farell
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