Manila: A study conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) has revealed that a sedentary lifestyle significantly raises the risks of obesity and high blood pressure among Filipino youths.

According to Philippines News Agency, FNRI science research specialist Patricia Isabel Amita discussed the findings in a recent Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview. Amita emphasized that maintaining good health extends beyond proper nutrition and regular exercise, highlighting the detrimental effects of insufficient sleep, prolonged screen time, and physical inactivity.

"The FNRI study indicates that excessive screen time, extended periods of sitting, and lack of sleep increase the susceptibility of Filipino adolescents to high blood pressure and obesity," Amita explained. She further noted that engaging in all three behaviors heightens the risk of obesity and hypertension.

Amita pointed out that hypertension is not confined to the elderly, as adolescents aged 10 to 17.9 are also affected. "Based on the FNRI study, 7 percent of Filipino teenagers are hypertensive according to the 2023 national nutrition survey," she stated. Alarmingly, teenagers are also experiencing strokes, underscoring the seriousness of the issue.

The study also highlighted the vicious cycle stemming from unhealthy habits, such as extensive nighttime use of mobile phones leading to insufficient sleep, thereby contributing to increased sedentary behavior the following day. Amita urged parents to motivate their children to participate in sports and incorporate activities like post-meal walks to break this cycle.