A Comprehensive Analysis: The Multidimensional Impact of Excessive Sugar Consumption Among Children and Adolescents and the Formulation of Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Public Health

The phenomenon of excessive sugar consumption in children and adolescents has become a global public health crisis with serious multidimensional implications. This essay aims to comprehensively analyze the root causes, impacts, and formulate innovative recommendations for interventions in Indonesia. Through a descriptive-analytical approach utilizing a literature review method, information is synthesized from various credible sources (Google Scholar, PubMed, Indonesian Ministry of Health, WHO) based on relevant keywords. The study findings identify that excessive sugar consumption patterns stem from a complex interaction between children's natural biological preference for sweetness, the massive availability of high-sugar products (especially Minuman Berpemanis Dalam Kemasan (MBDK) / Packaged Sweetened Beverages), and socio-psychological dynamics such as peer pressure, body image issues, and gender norms. The resulting impacts are broad: in terms of health, it significantly contributes to obesity (through fructose metabolic dysregulation and intra-hepatic fat accumulation), type 2 diabetes mellitus, dental caries, and even indications for heart disease and cancer. Socially, it affects interactions and an unwillingness to bring healthy packed lunches; while economically, it imposes direct financial burdens on individuals/families and long-term healthcare costs. Therefore, this essay recommends integrated innovative solutions, including strengthening government policies (expanding MBDK excise taxes and allocating funds for health, advertising regulation, traffic light labels), enhancing creative and behavior-based education and health campaigns (gamification, nutritional literacy, practical skills), and empowering the roles of parents, schools, and the social environment (healthy canteen programs, peer pressure education, inclusive physical activities). This study is expected to serve as a foundation for critical thinking and inspiration for concrete action by various stakeholders to create an environment that supports healthy eating patterns for a more productive future generation.