Anxiety is a prevalent issue, affecting an estimated one in five teenagers. This mental health condition can significantly impact their social interactions, academic success, and overall wellbeing. Alarmingly, anxiety disorders that emerge during adolescence often persist into adulthood.
A variety of factors—including biological, genetic, and environmental elements—contribute to an individual’s risk of developing anxiety. Recently, an increasing number of studies have begun to highlight the potential role of diet in mental health.
Foods such as fruits and vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids are associated with reduced anxiety symptoms.
Conversely, diets rich in free sugars have been linked to poor mental health among adolescents. Free sugars include added sugars found in foods and drinks, as well as naturally occurring sugars in honey, syrups, and fruit juices.
UK dietary guidelines recommend that free sugars should represent no more than 5% of our daily caloric intake. Alarmingly, adolescents generally consume more free sugars than any other age group, at times taking in up to 20% of their total daily energy intake from sugary beverages.
Recently, my colleagues and I conducted research indicating that sugary drink consumption may be associated with increased anxiety levels in teenagers.
This review integrated data from several past studies examining the correlation between sugary drink consumption and anxiety feelings among teenagers. We compiled results from multiple studies published between 2000 and 2025. Out of the nine studies included, seven identified a strong connection between sugary drink intake and anxiety.
The studies focused on individuals aged ten to 19, with sugary drink consumption typically assessed via surveys. Sugary drinks encompassed fizzy drinks, colas, sweetened fruit juices, sweetened milk beverages, energy drinks, and sweetened tea and coffee.
The outcomes indicated a notable positive correlation: teenagers who consumed larger quantities of sugary drinks had a 34% higher likelihood of being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.
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It is crucial to acknowledge that the studies included were observational. This means they demonstrate patterns or associations but do not establish a causal relationship between sugary drinks and anxiety. It is also possible that anxiety might drive teenagers to consume more sugary beverages.
Various factors, including educational levels and family income, can also impact mental health and the intake of sugary drinks.
The gut-brain axis, responsible for linking the brain with the gut, may also contribute to the relationship between sugary drink consumption and anxiety. However, there are many factors affecting gut health, including overall diet, stress levels, and sleep—each of which has also been associated with anxiety.
Overall, our research indicates that cutting down on sugary drink consumption could be a beneficial strategy to support the mental health of adolescents. While numerous studies have explored the physical health impacts of reducing sugary drink intake, further investigation is required to determine if similar benefits can be found for mental health.
Reducing Sugary Drink Intake
UK dietary guidelines recommend that adolescents and adults limit their daily sugar consumption to 30 grams (about seven teaspoons). Since a single can of fizzy drink can contain nearly 35 grams of sugar, reducing sugary drink consumption is an effective way to adhere to this guideline.
There are several practical steps to cut back on sugary drinks. Options include enjoying sparkling or soda water infused with a slice of lemon, cucumber, berries, or mint for natural flavor without added sugar. Sugary beverages can be substituted with water, milk, or sugar-free alternatives.
Another approach is to switch to low-calorie drinks that are artificially sweetened, though these should be consumed judiciously. Energy drinks can hinder sleep quality, academic performance, and behavior in adolescents; therefore, replacing them with options lower in caffeine, such as tea or coffee, is advisable.
Given the rising concerns regarding anxiety among teenagers, it is essential to identify whether modifying certain lifestyle factors can help diminish the risks of poor mental health. While our understanding of how sugary drinks might influence anxiety is not yet complete, this study offers insights into their potential impact.
