This review looked at how loneliness and problematic digital media use affect the eating and sleep habits of adolescents living in single-parent households. The researchers found that these two factors are linked to several behaviors, such as emotional eating, skipping breakfast, and eating while distracted. They also found a link between high digital media use and poorer diet quality.
In addition to eating habits, the study found that problematic digital media use is associated with sleep disruption. These behaviors can impact how the body handles things like appetite signals and internal clocks. However, the evidence for how these behaviors affect things like weight or insulin sensitivity is mostly indirect and based on observations rather than direct testing.
Because this was a review of existing data, the results show links rather than direct causes. The researchers noted that more direct, long-term studies are needed to fully understand these relationships. These findings highlight how social and digital habits may influence the daily health routines of teenagers.
