Study reveals sweet drinks pose anxiety disorder risk for teenagers
A study has revealed that excessive consumption of sugary beverages can increase the risk of anxiety disorders in teenagers. This finding comes from a meta-analysis published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, in which researchers from England reviewed various studies conducted between 2000 and 2025, according to a New York Post report from Friday, 13 March.
The study examined the relationship between consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks, such as soda, energy drinks, sweet juice, sweet tea, and sweet coffee, and anxiety disorders in teenagers aged 10–19 years.
Teenagers who consumed sugary beverages in higher quantities were found to have approximately 34 per cent greater risk of experiencing anxiety disorders compared with those who rarely consumed them.
Dr Chloe Casey, one of the study’s authors and a nutrition lecturer at Bournemouth University in England, stated that the impact of diet on mental health remains relatively understudied, particularly concerning high-energy, low-nutrient drinks. She noted that most public health initiatives have hitherto emphasised the physical consequences of poor diet, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.
“Although we cannot yet determine the direct cause, this study found an unhealthy relationship between sugary beverage consumption and anxiety disorders in young people,” Casey said.
Anxiety disorders in teenagers have risen sharply in recent years. It is therefore important to identify modifiable lifestyle habits to reduce the risk of this trend continuing.
Registered nutritionist Ilana Muhlstein from Los Angeles stated that soda is essentially liquid sugar, without fibre, protein, or fat that slows absorption. It therefore enters the bloodstream faster than almost any other type of food or drink. When this occurs, the pancreas must work hard to respond, insulin increases, and blood sugar levels drop rapidly.
“The sharper the spike in blood sugar, the steeper the drop,” Muhlstein said.
In practice, Muhlstein has observed a trend that teenagers now consume less soda but more oat milk lattes, coffee drinks with syrup, slushies, and sports drinks.
Excessive blood sugar spikes can also affect weight, acne, sleep quality, and emotional regulation, regardless of caffeine levels.
“What these children drink greatly affects their physical and emotional condition, and caffeine on top of unstable blood sugar will only make matters worse,” she said.
Certified nutritionist and longevity expert Serena Poon from Los Angeles emphasised that food and drinks are more than mere sources of energy; they also provide information for the body and brain.
“Very sweet drinks can provide a quick energy surge followed by a sharp decline. If coupled with caffeine, this can intensify the stress response in the body,” Poon explained.
She advised parents to encourage their children to reduce the frequency of sugary drink consumption and drink more water, herbal tea, or sugar-free carbonated water to maintain more stable body energy. Additionally, food should be balanced with fibre, healthy fats, and protein to help keep blood sugar levels stable, which can affect mood and concentration.
“Adolescence is an important phase of brain development. Supporting young people with balanced nutrition, stable energy, and adequate hydration can help maintain both physical and emotional health,” Poon said.