The American Heart Association Approves of Nintendo’s Wii Fit Plus
Tue, June 15, 2010 at 02:00AM It’s not unusual for the American Heart Association (AHA) to endorse heart-healthy packaged foods – often cereals. But now the AHA has entered into a ‘strategic relationship’ with Nintendo, and endorsed the Wii Fit Plus video game system. The so-called ‘exergame’ is thought to provide a healthy work-out, and to deserve the AHA’s seal of approval with their Healthy Check Mark. This will also apply to the Wii Sports Resort, which offers a wide range of exciting activities.
The AHA accolade isn’t without its critics. Dr Richard Besser, Medical Editor of ABC TV News, questioned whether the amount of exercise offered by these games was sufficient to counter known research that shows too much time spent video-gaming is associated with obesity. And Janet Fulton, a CDC epidemiologist, stated that the amount of physical activity derived from these games is inconclusive in terms of health benefits. At best, one or two games may demand ‘moderate intensity’.
In response to criticism of the deal, the AHA says: "While we first and foremost advise all Americans to meet the recommended levels of physical activity, we also recognize the importance of getting those who are totally inactive to start by doing something." Full rebuttals of Drs Besser’s and Fulton’s criticisms are contained in a press release.
In the ABC program, Dr Besser asked the AHA about another product that carries AHA’s Heart Check Mark – a drink called Chocolate Moose Attack. Dr Besser pointed out that the drink contains more sugar-per-ounce than regular Pepsi-Cola. The AHA is clearly on the defensive regarding both these product endorsements. Readers should draw their own conclusions.
Reader Comments (1)
Does an organization such as the American Heart Association really should be endorsing products to us? I don't think this is healthy practice, either. I believe they should focus more on research or studies on their field.
Jane Darwin
Breaking Health News