Sugary drinks linked to increased anxiety in teens, study finds

Sugary drinks linked to teen anxiety in new review

A large review of existing research has found a consistent association between high consumption of sugary drinks and increased anxiety symptoms in teenagers. The analysis, led by researchers from Bournemouth University, was published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics.

The team examined data from multiple studies that explored the connection between diet and mental health in young people. By combining this data, they looked for patterns that appeared across different groups.

Mental health impact often ignored

Dr. Chloe Casey, a Lecturer in Nutrition and co-author of the study, said public health initiatives have largely focused on the physical effects of poor diet, like obesity. "However, the mental health implications of diet have been underexplored by comparison," she stated.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health challenges for youth. In 2023, an estimated one in five children and adolescents globally were living with a mental health disorder, with anxiety frequently reported.

Survey data shows consistent link

The studies in the review used survey data to measure both sugary drink intake and mental health symptoms. These drinks included:

• Fizzy sodas and energy drinks
• Sweetened juices and squashes
• Sweetened tea, coffee, and flavored milks

Across all the research analyzed, higher consumption of these beverages was consistently tied to greater reports of anxiety symptoms in adolescents.

The researchers stress the evidence shows association, not causation. The review cannot determine if sugary drinks directly cause anxiety.

Cause and effect remains unclear

It is possible the relationship works in reverse: teens who already experience anxiety may consume more sugary drinks. Other shared factors, like family circumstances or sleep disorders, could also influence both sugar intake and anxiety.

"Whilst we may not be able to confirm at this stage what the direct cause is, this study has identified an unhealthy connection," Dr. Casey said. She noted the sharp rise in adolescent anxiety disorders makes identifying modifiable lifestyle habits crucial.

The study was led by former Bournemouth University PhD student Dr. Karim Khaled, who now works at Lebanese American University in Beirut.