Energy Drink Consumption Among Israeli-Arab Adolescents: Gender
Differences in Anxiety and Well-being
Abstract
Background: Research indicates a relationship between
nutrition, physiological characteristics, and mental health. It was
already reported that Israeli-Arab adolescents consume more fast food,
sweets, and candies than Jews. Higher energy drink consumption by
Israeli-Arab adolescents emerged. Though, data on the topic still needs
to be updated. The current study examined possible associations between
energy drink consumption, anxiety, and well-being in Israeli-Arab
adolescents. We also investigated these associations concerning fast
food consumption, physical activity, and sleep hours. Methods:
One hundred and fourteen adolescents (59 females) aged 12–18 from
several cities & villages in northern Israel were recruited to study. A
cross-sectional exploratory study assessed adolescents’ energy drink
consumption, nutritional and lifestyle habits, well-being, and anxiety
using self-reported questionnaires. Anthropometric measurements -
weight, height, and waist circumference were also assessed.
Results: Gender and energy drink consumption were associated
with psychological status. Energy drink consumers reported a lower
well-being index and a higher anxiety index than non-consumers. Energy
drink consumers ate significantly more fast food per week than
non-consumers. In addition, sleep hours were correlated with anxiety
levels. These results differed between genders. Conclusions:
Our study shows complex associations between energy drink consumption
and mental health indices. These associations can serve as a basis for
further research into this topic.