Teenage obesity affects not only their physical appearance but also their mental health. demonstrate distinct variations in the brains of obese adolescents, especially in the white and grey matter areas that are crucial for memory, emotional regulation, and decision-making. Real-life difficulties including poor impulse control, increased anxiety, and even melancholy are a result of these brain alterations.
Here are 5 ways that obesity affects the mental and emotional well-being of teenagers:
1. Sleep and attention disturbances:
Teens who are obese are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea, which impairs concentration and energy levels during the day and hinders academic performance.
2. Decision-making impairment:
Teens find it more difficult to plan ahead or resist temptations when executive function-related brain regions become less active.
3. Memory problems:
Changes in the hippocampus, the brain’s memory center, brought on by obesity may impair cognitive function in the classroom.
4. Disability:
Obesity is particularly common in adults and children with learning and physical difficulties. Physical restrictions as well as a lack of finances and specialized training may be factors.
5. Stress
Stress causes your body and brain to produce more hunger-controlling chemicals like cortisol. Stress increases the likelihood that you will consume comfort foods that are heavy in fat and sugar, which your body stores as excess fat.
Topics #Obesity #Teenage Obesity #weight gain
