The Effect of Dietary Choices, Junk Food Consumption, and Physical Activity on Obesity: A Literature Review
Naufal Hariz Fadhlani1*, Dwi Aprilawati2*, Hayuris Kinandita Setiawan3, Lilik Herawati3
Abstract
Obesity is a global health concern associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a condition where body mass index (BMI) exceeds 30 kg/m², obesity results from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, influenced profoundly by dietary habits and physical activity levels. This literature review examines the intricate relationships between nutrition, junk food consumption, physical activity, and obesity. Nutrition plays a critical role in obesity prevention and management. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats support metabolic health and weight regulation. In contrast, the consumption of energy-dense, nutrient-poor junk food contributes to excessive calorie intake and weight gain. The pervasive availability and marketing of junk food exacerbate dietary challenges, emphasizing the need for interventions promoting healthier eating habits. Physical activity is pivotal in energy balance and obesity prevention. Sedentary lifestyles, increasingly prevalent, heighten obesity risks. Regular physical activity not only expends calories but also improves metabolic function and cardiovascular health. The WHO recommends specific guidelines for physical activity to mitigate obesity risks. This review synthesizes current research findings and expert insights to elucidate how dietary choices, junk food consumption, and physical activity levels collectively influence obesity. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing effective strategies and policies to combat obesity and enhance public health outcomes globally.
Keywords
obesity; public health; junk food; non-communicable diseases; physical activity.
Cite This Article
Fadhlani, N. H., Aprilawati, D., Setiawan, H. K., Herawati, L. (2026). The Effect of Dietary Choices, Junk Food Consumption, and Physical Activity on Obesity: A Literature Review. International Journal of Scientific Advances (IJSCIA), Volume 7| Issue 4: Jul – Aug 2026, Pages 458-462 URL: https://www.ijscia.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Volume7-Issue4-Jul-Aug-No.1062-458-462.pdf
Volume 7 | Issue 4: Jul – Aug 2026
