Study Links Heavy Video Gaming to Poor Diet and Sleep in Young Adults

Spending more than 10 hours a week playing video games may be associated with poorer diet, disrupted sleep, and higher body weight among young adults, according to a new study led by Curtin University and published in the journal Nutrition. The research focused on university students, a group at a critical stage for developing long-term lifestyle habits.

The study surveyed 317 students from five Australian universities, with a median age of 20. Participants were grouped by weekly gaming time into low (0–5 hours), moderate (5–10 hours), and high (more than 10 hours). Health patterns were broadly similar in the low and moderate groups, while noticeable differences emerged among heavy gamers.

Researchers found that students gaming more than 10 hours per week had lower diet quality scores and higher rates of obesity. The high gaming group recorded a median body mass index of 26.3 kg/m², compared with healthier median values of 22.2 and 22.8 kg/m² among low and moderate gamers. Each additional hour of gaming was linked to a gradual decline in diet quality.

Sleep quality was generally poor across the sample, but moderate and heavy gamers reported greater sleep disruption than light gamers. While the study does not establish causation, researchers suggest excessive gaming may displace healthy routines. They advise that balanced gaming habits, regular sleep, and healthier food choices could support better long-term well-being.