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Mums who go out to work could be to blame for the UK's child obesity epidemic, a new scientific study has claimed.

University College London's research, which found dads' working patterns don't affect their kids' weight, is believed to be the first to link parents working habits to overweight children.

Speaking to The Sunday Times , Professor Emla Fitzsimons said: "We find that children whose mothers work are more likely to have increased sedentary behaviour and poorer dietary habits."

The study of 20,000 families found children of working single mums are 25 per cent more likely to be over weight.

There is also an increased chance of kids being overweight if there is another parent at home, but it's not as high.

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There wasn't much difference between mums who work part time and those who do full time, and children were more likely to be overweight regardless.

The research found children with mums who work are 29 per cent less likely to eat a regular breakfast.

It also showed they are 19 per cent more likely to watch TV for more than three hours a day.

Earlier this month another separate study found the average child has already consumed 18 years’ worth of sugar by the age of 10 .

Youngsters at 10 eat an average 14 sugar cubes a day, eight above the maximum recommended for their age.

(Image: Getty)

Public Health England data is based on the average intake of those aged two to 18.

With children eating 2,800 sugar cubes a year more than the advised amount, PHE says trading junk food for healthier snacks could remove 2,500 cubes a year from a child’s diet.

Dr Alison Tedstone, of PHE, said: "Parents can take action now.

"By making simple swaps children can have healthier versions of foods and drinks while significantly reducing their sugar intake."