A new study involving researchers from Bournemouth University has identified a connection between high-sugar beverages and anxiety symptoms in young people, highlighting a potential mental health impact beyond well-known physical effects.

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

The study conducted by Bournemouth University found an association between consumption of drinks containing a high amount of sugar and anxiety symptoms in adolescents. (Image: PA Wire)

Dr Chloe Casey, lecturer in nutrition and co-author of the study, said: “With increasing concern about adolescent nutrition, most public health initiatives have emphasised the physical consequences of poor dietary habits, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.

“However, the mental health implications of diet have been underexplored by comparison, particularly for drinks that are energy-dense but low in nutrients.”

Published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, the study reviewed findings from multiple investigations into adolescent diets and mental health.

It consistently found an association between high consumption of sugary drinks and anxiety symptoms.

However, researchers cautioned that the studies do not prove causation and that anxiety may also lead to increased consumption of sugary beverages.

Dr Casey said: “This study has identified an unhealthy connection between consumption of sugary drinks and anxiety disorders in young people.

“Anxiety disorders in adolescence have risen sharply in recent years so it is important to identify lifestyle habits which can be changed to reduce the risk of this trend continuing.”