Obesity is a condition in which the body has excessive fat accumulation due to energy intake (food and beverages) that far exceeds energy expenditure (physical activity). In adolescents, obesity is usually determined using the Body Mass Index (BMI) adjusted for age and sex. Adolescents are classified as obese when their BMI exceeds the normal threshold based on relevant growth charts.

This condition is not merely about body weight or appearance, but a serious health issue that can affect both adolescence and adulthood.

Why Does Obesity Occur in Adolescents?

Here are some common causes:

• Excessive Consumption of Junk Food

Frequently eating burgers, fried chicken, sugary drinks, or boba every day. These foods are very high in calories but often do not keep you full for long.

• Lack of Physical Activity (“Lazy Lifestyle”)

Spending long hours sitting, watching videos, scrolling through social media, or lying down. Minimal physical activity causes unused calories to be stored as fat.

• Gadget Addiction

Using smartphones for hours leads to less movement, forgetting to drink water, and sometimes eating just to accompany scrolling.

• Irregular Sleep Patterns

Staying up late and waking up late. Lack of sleep disrupts appetite-regulating hormones, making adolescents feel hungrier and crave sweet foods.

• Unconscious Snacking Habits

Snacking on chips, chocolate, or sugary drinks while studying or watching shows. “It’s just a little,” but when added up, the calorie intake can be significant.

• Stress and Emotional Factors

Academic pressure, friendship issues, and overthinking can lead some adolescents to cope with stress by eating (emotional eating).

• Low Intake of Fruits and Vegetables

Preferring fast food over nutritious meals, resulting in insufficient fiber and essential nutrients that help regulate body weight.

• Family or Genetic Factors

A family history of obesity increases the risk for adolescents. However, obesity can still be prevented with healthy habits.

Impacts of Obesity in Adolescents

The effects of obesity in adolescents are not limited to physical health, such as an increased risk of metabolic diseases (e.g., metabolic syndrome, blood sugar disorders, and abnormal cholesterol levels). Studies show that obese adolescents have a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome compared to those with normal body weight.

Other impacts include decreased self-confidence, psychological issues, and difficulties participating in physical or social activities due to physical limitations. Therefore, preventing obesity in adolescents is crucial.

Recommended Prevention Strategies

1. Adopt a Healthy and Balanced Diet

Reduce fast food, fried foods, and snacks high in sugar and fat; increase fruit and vegetable intake; choose healthy protein sources; limit sugary beverages; and control portion sizes.

Example of a Healthy and Balanced Meal Plan

2. Stay Physically Active Every Day

Engage in at least 60 minutes of light to moderate physical activity daily, such as brisk walking, cycling, or light exercise. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle.

3. Limit Screen Time for Entertainment

Excessive screen time leads to prolonged sitting, unhealthy eating patterns, and reduced physical activity.

4. Maintain Adequate and Regular Sleep

Good sleep patterns help regulate metabolism and hormone balance.

5. Improve Nutrition Education and Awareness
Promote healthy lifestyle education at home, school, and in the community, as the environment plays a major role in shaping healthy habits.

References from Recent Indonesian Research and Literature

• Factors Influencing Adolescent Obesity in Indonesia — A literature review (2016–2024) identifying fast food consumption, sedentary lifestyle, and lack of nutritional knowledge as major risk factors. Journal Universitas Pahlawan.
• Factors Associated with Obesity Among Adolescents at SMP Islam Plus Daarul Jannah (2024) — A quantitative study showing a significant relationship between fast food consumption, low physical activity, and obesity. Journal Universitas Pahlawan.
• Preventing Obesity: The Role of Physical Activity in Early Adolescence — Research highlighting the importance of regular physical activity in preventing adolescent obesity. ejournal.stikku.ac.id.
• Metabolic Syndrome in Obese Adolescents: Prevalence and Its Relationship with Diet Quality — Discusses long-term health risks such as metabolic syndrome associated with persistent poor dietary habits. Universitas Gadjah Mada Journal.