Today’s teens and young adults have a reputation for embracing physical activity, talking openly about mental health and scrolling through social media feeds filled with content from “wellness” gurus. Those habits have led some to dub Generation Z—those born between 1997 and 2012—the “healthiest generation.”
But what do the facts say? Is Gen Z really a step ahead of Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) or the Gen Xers and Baby Boomers who came before them? It’s complicated.
“While Gen Z gets some things right, there’s definitely room for improvement,” says Nour Alkhoudr, M.D., a family medicine physician at Henry Ford Health.
While the youngest members of the generation are still teens, their Gen Z elders are nearing 30—and making their own health decisions along the way. Here’s where they shine (and where they can level up).
How Does Gen Z's Health Compare To Other Generations?
Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Use
Gen Z youth, or “Zoomers,” have lower rates of smoking than adults from other age groups. They’re also less likely to drink alcohol. The pattern holds when you look back in time: Today’s Gen Z youth drink less than Millennials or Gen X kids did when they were young. Twenty years ago, people 18 to 35 drank more than other age groups. Today, the highest rates of alcohol use are in people 35 to 54.
But the news isn’t all good. “Many of my young patients vape, and a lot of them are under the impression that it’s safer than smoking tobacco or marijuana,” Dr. Alkhoudr says. “In fact, vaping is still risky. It can wreak havoc on your lungs.”
Marijuana use is also common among teens and young adults, especially now that it has been legalized in many states. But legal doesn’t mean harmless. Cannabis use can cause permanent effects on the developing brain when used in adolescence, especially among heavy users. It can also increase the risk of mental health issues and addiction.
Fitness and Nutrition
Some evidence suggests Zoomers are more likely to go to the gym and work out than the generations who came before them. “It’s great that young people are being active,” Dr. Alkhoudr says. Physical activity is linked to a host of mental and physical health benefits.
But there’s more to good health than lifting weights a few times a week. Modern adults of all ages spend a lot of time on screens. For Gen Z’s “digital natives,” a lifetime of screen use contributes to a more sedentary lifestyle. An inactive lifestyle raises the risk of problems like obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, depression and even certain cancers.
Nutrition is also a mixed bag among her younger patients, Dr. Alkhoudr says. Young people are more likely to eat plant-based meals and be aware of nutrition trends thanks to social media. They’re also less likely to have obesity. In 2023, almost 20% of 18- to 24-year-olds had obesity, compared to nearly 40% of those 45 to 54.
On the other hand, that still means 1 in 5 people in the 18-24 category has obesity, and obesity rates are increasing. What’s more, ultra-processed foods remain a problem for people of all ages.
Sleep
Sleep is an essential cornerstone of good health—and many young people aren’t getting enough. Experts recommend adults get at least 7 hours each night, and teens should log 8 to 10. “So many of my young patients tell me they only sleep 4 or 5 hours a night,” Dr. Alkhoudr says.
To improve sleep quantity and quality, Dr. Alkhoudr recommends establishing good sleep habits and limiting caffeine. Experts recommend keeping caffeine to 300 to 400 milligrams per day. “Many of my patients drink energy drinks and other supplements with caffeine, and they end up consuming much more than the recommended amount,” she says. “Try tracking your intake to see how much you’re really getting.”
Mental Health
Unfortunately, today’s youth are growing up in an era when stress and mental health problems are sky-high. Surveys show almost two-thirds of Gen Z members have reported ever experiencing a mental health problem—higher than any other generation. And 2023 data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found 40% of U.S. high school students had persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
“There was an increase in depression and anxiety, especially during the 2020 COVID pandemic, and that was particularly hard on adolescents and young adults,” Dr. Alkhoudr says. But there are signs that mental health is improving as we move on from the pandemic. And the stigma around mental health problems has been shrinking with every generation. Gen Z is more comfortable talking about mental health than other age groups—and they’re more likely to seek help.
Family Medicine At Henry Ford
Gen Z: The Future Of Health
Add it all up, and it’s not clear that any generation really wins the “healthiest generation” award. Despite challenges, Gen Z has a lot going for it. “Members of this generation are so creative and good at solving problems,” Dr. Alkhoudr says.
They also have tools at their fingertips to support better health. Digital devices make it easier than ever to access nutrition information, track caffeine use, connect with therapists and support groups, stream exercise videos and find other supports for better health.
Luckily, good health doesn’t have to be a battle of the generations. “People of any age can improve their health habits,” Dr. Alkhoudr says.
Reviewed by Dr. Nour Alkhoudr, a family medicine physician who sees patients at Henry Ford Family Medicine - Ford Rd.
