Researchers in Mexico studied 272 teenagers to understand why so many are becoming overweight or obese. They found that playing video games a lot and having an unhealthy lifestyle (like not exercising and eating poorly) are strongly connected to weight gain. The study shows that teens who play video games frequently are about 10 times more likely to be overweight compared to those who don’t play as much. The good news? The research suggests that doctors, parents, and teens can work together to reduce screen time, increase physical activity, and build healthier daily habits to prevent obesity.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether playing video games and unhealthy lifestyle habits are connected to teenagers becoming overweight or obese in Mexico
  • Who participated: 272 Mexican adolescents (teenagers), with slightly more boys (51.8%) than girls participating in the study
  • Key finding: Teens who play video games regularly are about 10 times more likely to be overweight or obese compared to those who don’t play much. When combined with physical inactivity, the risk becomes even stronger—about 7 times higher.
  • What it means for you: If you’re a teenager or parent, this research suggests that limiting video game time and increasing physical activity could significantly reduce the risk of weight gain. However, this study shows a connection, not proof that games directly cause obesity—other factors like diet and overall lifestyle also play important roles.

The Research Details

This was a cross-sectional study, which means researchers looked at a group of teenagers at one specific point in time and compared those who played video games with those who didn’t. They measured their weight, asked about their gaming habits, and looked at their lifestyle choices like exercise and eating patterns. The researchers then used statistical tools to figure out if there was a connection between these factors and obesity. This type of study is like taking a snapshot of a moment in time rather than following people over many years.

This research approach is important because it quickly shows us what factors are connected to obesity in real teenagers living in Mexico, where obesity rates are very high (40.4% of adolescents). By studying a large group at one time, researchers can identify patterns and risk factors that doctors and families should pay attention to. This information helps guide future prevention efforts and interventions.

This study has some strengths: it included 272 teenagers and looked at multiple factors (gaming, physical activity, and lifestyle). However, because it’s a snapshot study rather than following teens over time, we can’t say for certain that video games cause obesity—only that they’re connected. The study was published in PeerJ, a peer-reviewed journal, which means other experts reviewed the work. Readers should remember that this research shows association (connection), not causation (direct cause-and-effect).

What the Results Show

The study found that 75.7% of the teenagers studied were overweight or obese. Teenagers who played video games regularly had a 10.67 times higher chance of being overweight or obese compared to those who didn’t play much. This is a very strong connection. Additionally, teenagers with unhealthy lifestyles (like not exercising, poor eating habits, and lots of screen time) had a 3.55 times higher chance of being overweight. When researchers looked at video game use and physical inactivity together, the numbers became even more dramatic—video game use showed a 6.89 times higher risk, and physical inactivity showed a 3.12 times higher risk. These findings suggest that both gaming habits and lack of exercise are important factors linked to teenage obesity in Mexico.

The study also noted that boys made up slightly more than half the sample (51.8%), and the high obesity rate (75.7%) in this group of teenagers reflects the serious obesity problem in Mexico overall. The research highlights that the problem has gotten worse since the COVID-19 pandemic, possibly because teenagers spent more time indoors with video games and less time being physically active.

This research fits with other studies showing that excessive screen time and physical inactivity are linked to weight gain in young people worldwide. Mexico’s obesity rates in adolescents (40.4%) are among the highest globally, and this study provides local evidence supporting what international research has already suggested: that reducing screen time and increasing exercise are key to preventing obesity.

This study has important limitations to consider. First, it only shows a connection between video games and obesity at one point in time—it doesn’t prove that games directly cause weight gain. Second, the study doesn’t tell us how much video game time is ’too much’ or what other factors (like diet quality, family income, or sleep) might be involved. Third, the study relied on teenagers’ reports about their habits, which might not always be completely accurate. Finally, because this was a snapshot study rather than following teens over years, we can’t know if gaming leads to obesity or if heavier teens simply play more games.

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, experts suggest that teenagers should limit video game time and aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily (moderate confidence level). Parents and doctors should talk with teenagers about balancing screen time with outdoor activities and sports. Schools and families should work together to create environments that encourage movement and reduce sedentary time. These recommendations are supported by this study plus other research on teen health.

This research is most relevant for Mexican teenagers and their families, as well as healthcare providers in Mexico. However, the findings likely apply to teenagers in other countries too, since obesity and gaming habits are global issues. Parents of teens who play video games frequently should especially pay attention. Teenagers themselves should consider whether their gaming habits might be affecting their health and activity levels. Healthcare providers should use this information when talking to families about obesity prevention.

Changes in weight and fitness don’t happen overnight. If a teenager reduces gaming time and increases physical activity, they might notice improvements in energy and fitness within 2-4 weeks. More significant weight changes typically take 2-3 months of consistent healthy habits. The most important thing is building lasting lifestyle changes rather than expecting quick results.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track daily screen time (video games specifically) in minutes and compare it to daily physical activity minutes. Set a goal like ‘60 minutes of activity, 90 minutes of gaming maximum’ and log both daily to see patterns.
  • Use the app to set daily reminders to take 10-minute movement breaks every hour of gaming. Create a ‘gaming schedule’ that includes mandatory activity breaks, and track completed breaks to build the habit of mixing activity with screen time.
  • Weekly review of screen time vs. activity time ratio. Set a goal to gradually increase activity minutes while decreasing gaming minutes. Track weight or fitness metrics (like how far you can run) monthly to see if lifestyle changes are making a difference. Use the app to celebrate small wins like ‘completed 3 activity breaks today’ to stay motivated.

This research shows a connection between video game use and obesity in teenagers, but it does not prove that video games directly cause weight gain. Many factors contribute to obesity, including diet, genetics, sleep, and overall lifestyle. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace advice from a doctor or healthcare provider. If you or a teenager in your care is concerned about weight or health, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance. This study was conducted in Mexico and may not apply equally to all populations.