The children of parents who lay down strict rules, but are not affectionate, are more likely to be obese, a new study has found.

Canadian researchers looked at over 35,000 children aged 11 and under. The parents of these children fell into one of two groups:
-Authoritative - these parents were usually affectionate, setting healthy boundaries and having reasonable discussions about behaviour with their children
-Authoritarian - these parents tended to be very strict, laying down rigid rules and limits, but not discussing this with their children or showing affection.

The study found that children aged between two and five who belonged to the authoritarian group were 30% more likely to be obese, while those aged between six and 11 were 37% more likely to be obese.

"Parents should at least be aware of their parenting style. If you're treating your child with a balance of affection and limits - these are the kids who are least likely to be obese," noted Dr Lisa Kakinami of McGill University in Montreal.

She added that with so many children now overweight and obese, looking at factors in the home which may be contributing to this problem ‘could lead to better prevention and interventions'.

Details of these findings were presented at the American Heart Association's Epidemiology & Prevention/Nutrition, Physical Activity & Metabolism Scientific Sessions 2014 in California.