A recent study published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics has revealed a significant correlation between high consumption of sugary drinks – including sodas, energy drinks, and sweetened juices – and elevated anxiety levels among adolescents. The findings add to growing concerns about the mental health impact of poor dietary habits, traditionally focused on physical risks like obesity and diabetes.
The Rising Mental Health Crisis in Youth
Anxiety is now a leading cause of mental distress in young people, and its prevalence has been steadily increasing. While public health initiatives often prioritize the physical consequences of unhealthy diets, the mental health implications have been largely overlooked. This study highlights a critical gap in understanding how nutrition impacts psychological well-being, particularly regarding highly processed, nutrient-poor beverages.
Study Details and Key Findings
Researchers analyzed data from nine surveys spanning 2000 to 2025, examining the link between sugary drink intake and mental health in adolescents. The meta-analysis revealed that high consumption of sugary drinks was associated with a 34% higher likelihood of experiencing anxiety. This is consistent with previous research, including a 2019 study from China that found increased rates of depression and anxiety among teens who consumed more soft drinks.
The study included beverages such as sodas, energy drinks, sweetened juices, flavored milks, and even sugared coffee and tea. Experts recommend pure hydration (water) for youth and avoidance of caffeine, sugar, or sugar substitutes.
Correlation vs. Causation: The Ongoing Debate
The authors acknowledge that the study demonstrates a correlation, not necessarily causation. It’s possible that anxiety drives adolescents toward sugary drinks as a coping mechanism, or that external factors contribute to both higher anxiety and increased sugar consumption. However, the researchers emphasize the importance of identifying modifiable lifestyle habits to address the escalating trend of anxiety disorders in adolescence.
What This Means for Parents and Educators
The findings reinforce the need for broader public health messaging that includes mental well-being alongside physical health. Reducing sugary drink intake is a simple yet potentially impactful step to mitigate anxiety risk in young people. The increase in anxiety rates is a serious issue, and addressing lifestyle factors like diet could be a key part of prevention.
“Whilst we may not be able to confirm at this stage what the direct cause is, this study has identified an unhealthy connection between consumption of sugary drinks and anxiety disorders in young people. And because anxiety disorders in adolescence have risen sharply in recent years, she added, “it is important to identify lifestyle habits which can be changed to reduce the risk of this trend continuing.” – Chloe Casey, Bournemouth University lecturer in nutrition.
