Work

Adolescent obesity: Biochemical and dietary disparities in U.S. youth

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Adolescence is a critical period of growth with elevated nutritional demands, yet many U.S. adolescents fail to meet recommended dietary intakes. This study analyzed data from three NHANES cycles (2013-2018) to assess obesity trends among adolescents aged 12-18, compare dietary intake by BMI, and evaluate nutritional biomarkers. Methods: This retrospective observational study analyzed data from three NHANES cycles to estimate obesity prevalence among U.S. adolescents aged 12-18 years. Dietary intake and blood concentrations of micro- and macronutrients were compared between adolescents with and without obesity. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥95th percentile per CDC growth charts. Nutrient intake was assessed against Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) and Adequate Intake (AI) benchmarks, and biomarker levels were evaluated using established clinical thresholds. All statistical analyses were conducted using SAS version 9.4 and SAS Enterprise Guide version 8.3. Results: ≤ 0.05). The prevalence of low vitamin D, low hemoglobin, low MCV, and iron deficiency anemia was also significantly higher in the group with obesity. Conclusions: This study reveals that despite similar caloric intakes, adolescents with obesity exhibited higher rates of nutrient deficiencies and markers of inflammation. This work underscores the importance of recognizing nutrition gaps in adolescent care.

Source: Obesity Pillars

DOI: 10.1016/j.obpill.2025.100239

Authors: John T. Stutts, Yong S. Choe, Ashley Lynn Bronston

Institution: Abbott Nutrition (United States)

Language: English

Topic: Obesity, Physical Activity, Diet

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,400