By: Annisa Anindita Azka (Yunior High School Student, SMPN 8 Purwokerto, Central Java INDONESIA)
Sugary drinks have become part of many teenagers’ daily lives today. At school, at home, in hangout places, and even during group study, we often see friends buying packaged tea, soda, milk coffee, iced chocolate, boba drinks, or bottled fruit-flavored drinks. They taste good and refreshing, especially during hot weather or after exercising. However, behind that sweet taste, there is a health threat that we often do not realize.
As a junior high school student, I see that sugary drinks are no longer just for quenching thirst. Many teenagers buy them because they are trendy, because the packaging is attractive, or because they want to try drinks that are viral on social media. Sometimes, we buy them not because we really need them, but simply because we follow our friends. If this small habit is done every day, it can have a big impact on our health.
One impact that needs to be watched out for is obesity. Obesity is not only about having a bigger body, but also a condition where excessive body weight can disturb health. Teenagers who experience obesity may get tired more easily, become less physically active, lose confidence, and face the risk of serious diseases in the future. This is dangerous because adolescence should be a time to grow healthily, actively, and productively.
The problem is that the sugar in drinks is often not clearly felt because it is mixed with ice, milk, syrup, or flavorings. We may think we are only drinking one cup, while in fact the sugar content can be quite high. If this is combined with lack of movement, spending too much time on gadgets, rarely exercising, and often eating fast food, the risk of obesity among teenagers becomes even greater.
In my opinion, we do not have to completely ban sugary drinks. Enjoying our favorite drink once in a while is certainly fine. However, what needs to be controlled is the habit. Sugary drinks should not become something we consume every day. We can start with simple steps, such as bringing water to school more often, reducing packaged drinks, choosing smaller portions, asking for less sugar, or limiting sugary drinks to certain occasions.
Schools also have an important role. School canteens should provide healthier drink choices and reduce the sale of high-sugar drinks. Teachers and parents can also help students understand that maintaining health does not mean we cannot enjoy delicious food or drinks, but that we must learn to choose wisely.
As the younger generation, we must start caring about our own bodies. Health is not only an adult issue. Teenagers also need to maintain healthy eating and drinking habits from now on. We should not sacrifice our future health just because we enjoy sweet drinks too often. Sugary drinks may be enjoyable, but if consumed excessively, they can become a real threat to teenagers. Therefore, let us begin to choose healthier drinks. A glass of water may look simple, but from that simple choice, a healthier future can begin.
