Energy drinks consumption and perceptions among University Students in Beirut, Lebanon: A mixed methods approach

Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption and Associated Health Risks Awareness Among University Students in Kuwait: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is linked to various health risks, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. University students are particularly vulnerable due to lifestyle factors and high consumption patterns. Objective: This cross-sectional survey examined SSB consumption patterns, sugar intake, and awareness of health risks among Kuwait University students. Methods: Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression models, were conducted using SPSS. Results: Findings revealed a high prevalence of SSB consumption, with significant associations between intake levels and demographic characteristics. Regular soda was the most consumed SSB, with 42% of students drinking it 5-6 times per week and 32% consuming it daily. The median daily sugar intake from soda alone was 38 g, approaching or exceeding recommended limits. Overall, 34% of students were classified as high-sugar consumers. Males had a higher total sugar intake, while females consumed SSBs more frequently. Greater health awareness was associated with lower sugar consumption, such as obesity (OR = 0.142, 95% CI = 0.046-0.435, p < 0.001), whereas students who were aware of the sugar content in SSBs and who preferred unsweetened fruit juices had significantly lower sugar intake from SSBs (OR = 0.653, 95% CI = 0.435-0.980, p = 0.040; OR = 0.447, 95% CI = 0.295, 0.675; p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions-such as educational campaigns and policy measures-to reduce SSB consumption and promote healthier dietary habits among young adults in Kuwait.

Factors Influencing Energy Drink Usage Amongst Pupils in the Mahikeng Sub-District, Northwest

Background/Objectives: The high consumption rate of energy drinks among pupils is a serious public health concern in various countries, including South Africa. Excessive consumption of energy drinks that contain elevated caffeine and sugar levels has the potential to lead to the development of addictions, strokes, dehydration, sleeping disorders, mental health and central nervous disorders, hypertension, digestive problems, and anxiety. Most pupils regard energy drinks as regular soft drinks and lack knowledge of the active ingredients contained in energy drinks and their side effects. The objective of this study was to investigate factors influencing energy drink usage amongst pupils in the Mahikeng sub-district, Northwest Province. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted amongst 505 pupils in the Mahikeng sub-district, Northwest, using self-administered questionnaires. Data were analysed using STATA software version 18 to examine associations between variables. Results: The energy drinks consumed most by pupils were Dragon (38.21%), Switch (28.97%), and Red Bull (14.62%). Factors and reasons influencing energy drink usage among pupils include all-night parties (3.1%), concentration (20.3%), being awake (43.1%), curiosity (2.2%), energy levels (23.1%), exams (13.8%), sports (8.7%), fatigue (6.9%), and health (2.3%). There was a strong association (p ≤ 0.05) between energy drink usage and sports activities amongst pupils. Conclusions: It is concluded that health education and promotion intervention programmes are required to educate pupils about the dangers of energy drink usage to prevent public health risks. Further studies, including research on primary school pupils, are necessary, considering that a substantial number of pupils were exposed to energy drinks at an early age.

Factors and perceptions associated with energy drink consumption among undergraduate students attending a rural university: a descriptive study

Objectives: This study examined the prevalence, patterns, and knowledge of Energy Drink (ED) consumption among undergraduate students. Participants: Participants included students (n = 373) attending a medium-sized rural university in Texas. Methods: Students were surveyed anonymously using convenience sampling and a cross-sectional design with 15 items structured questionnaire. Results: Nearly 90% of the study participants (N = 373) were between 18-24 years. Among the consumers (n = 165), the majority were females (80%) and Caucasian (73%). About 60% of them lived on campus, 22% were engaged in some type of sports activity, and primarily represented the freshmen (42%) and sophomore (25%) population. Having apriori knowledge of the negative health effects of EDs was associated with their consumption [OR: 0.40, CI: (0.22, 0.72)]. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the need to establish programs and policies on campus to address ED consumption issues and create educational campaigns to inform the undergraduate population attending a rural university.

Energy drinks, depression, insomnia and stress among Palestinians: The mediating role of cigarettes smoking, electronic cigarettes and waterpipe

We investigated the association between energy drinks, depression, insomnia and stress among Palestinians and whether cigarette smoking, electronic cigarettes, and waterpipe mediate the association between these variables. Our study sample consisted of 506 Palestinian adults: 120 men and 386 women recruited from online advertisements, e-mail campaigns and social media. Findings showed a positive correlation between energy drinks, depression, insomnia, and stress. While a positive correlation was found between energy drinks, cigarette smoking, electronic smoking and waterpipe. Results of path analysis showed that energy drinks, cigarette smoking, electronic smoking and waterpipe mediated the correlation between energy drinks, insomnia, depression and stress. Thus, there is an urgent need to increase community awareness regarding the adverse effects of excessive energy drink consumption among Palestinians. Accordingly, training programs, workshops, and open days targeting Palestinians to improve awareness of the adverse effects of energy drinks on physical and mental health are crucial to reducing Palestinians' extensive use of energy drinks.

Energy drinks in Tamale: Understanding youth perceptions, consumption patterns, and related factors

Energy drinks (EDs) have become a popular choice for young people seeking physical and cognitive boosts, with ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, and B vitamins aimed at improving academic, athletic, and alertness levels. However, the popularity of these drinks is also driven by low prices, taste, brand loyalty, and gendered marketing, with boys being more likely to consume them. Despite the supposed benefits, EDs have been associated with high-risk behaviours, deaths, and adverse health effects, especially those related to cardiovascular risk. Meanwhile, in Ghana, the use of EDs is on the rise. Hence, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and consumption patterns, perceptions, and factors associated with ED consumption among the youth of the Tamale Metropolis. The study was cross-sectional, consisting of 541 participants. The group consisted of 340 males and 201 females, between the ages of 15 and 45. A questionnaire was utilized to obtain data on the respondents' consumption patterns and perceptions of EDs, as well as their socio-demographic characteristics. The results of the study indicated that a large percentage of the respondents, 98.7%, had consumed EDs before, while 78.7% currently consume them. Respondents believed that EDs provided additional energy (81.00%) and reduced stress (62.30%). However, they also perceived side effects such as insomnia (60.60%) and restlessness (51.40%). Also, the highest proportion of respondents (83.4%) had poor knowledge of EDs. They were unaware of the classification of EDs and their ingredients, side effects, and benefits. Age, marital status, level of education, work intensity, EDs served at gatherings, and knowledge of EDs was significantly associated with ED consumption (p < .05). Consumption was higher among those aged 26 to 35 years, singles, individuals with no formal education, and those with high work intensity. The high consumption was also associated with low knowledge levels. It is recommended that public health and nutrition professionals engage in further advocacy efforts to improve the youth's knowledge and perception of EDs in a positive manner. In addition, lawmakers should use legislation to influence consumption rates and safeguard the health of consumers.

The Association Between Caffeine Consumption and Academic Success in Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

 The consumption of caffeinated beverages has increased significantly, particularly, among young adults. They use caffeinated drinks for a variety of reasons. The most popular reason is to enhance mental alertness by improving brain function, wakefulness, and productivity. The high prevalence rate of caffeinated drinks among young adults may affect their academic performance level.

METHODOLOGY

 A descriptive cross-sectional study based on an electronic questionnaire via Google Forms, conducted in February 2022 after the biomedical ethics committee obtained the ethical approval at Umm Al-Qura University (UQU), College of Medicine, Makkah, Saudi Arabia, the sample size was 593 medical students in Makkah region.

RESULTS

 A total number of 593 medical students participated in this study, most of the medical students who participated (47.20%) had average GPA of 85%-95%. The largest number of medical students (45.30%) consume only one cup of caffeinated beverages per day. We reported no association between caffeinated beverages consumption and academic performance.

CONCLUSION

 Our study demonstrates that caffeinated beverages are a popular practice among medical college students. Majority of the medical students in Makkah region consume coffee as the most popular drink, while energy drinks are considered to be the least consumed drink, but energy drinks are easily affordable and available. Therefore, primary prevention of excessive consumption of caffeine is essential.

Prevalence of energy drink consumption world-wide: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The increasing market for energy drinks (EDs) in recent years, as well as the health risks caused by their consumption, prompt calls to estimate the prevalence of ED use among different countries. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the prevalence of ED use in different continents and age groups.

METHOD

We searched two databases (i.e. PubMed and PsycInfo) on 31 March 2023 to identify studies reporting the prevalence of ED use. A total of 192 studies (196 distinct samples; n = 1 120 613; 53.37% males) from the United States, Europe, Asia, Oceania and Africa were included in the analysis. A random-effects model was applied to estimate the overall pooled prevalence at several time-periods. Subgroup analyses were performed to provide prevalence based on continent and age group. The quality of articles was assessed using Joana Brigg's Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist. Measurements included prevalence of ED use (i.e. life-time, past 12 months, past 30 days, past 7 days and daily use), continent and age group (i.e. children, adolescents, young adults and adults).

RESULTS

The life-time ED use world-wide-pooled prevalence was estimated to be 54.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 48.8-60.6; I2  = 99.80], 43.4% (95% CI = 36.1-50.6; I2  = 99.92) in the past 12 months, 32.3% (95% CI = 28.8-35.8; I2  = 99.82) in the past 30 days, 21.6% (95% CI = 18.7-24.5; I2  = 99.95) in the past 7 days and 8.82% (95% CI = 6.3-11.4; I2  = 99.95) daily ED use. Subgroups analyses showed significant differences in ED life-time use within age groups (P = 0.002) and continents (P = 0.035).

CONCLUSIONS

The world-wide prevalence of energy drink use appears to be high, particularly among adolescents and young adults.

Different Methods of Scan Alignment in Erosive Tooth Wear Measurements: An In Vitro Study

BACKGROUND

Model alignment in cases of erosive tooth wear can be challenging, and no method has been reported to outweigh the others.

METHODS

Extracted human teeth were mounted on two models and scanned at different times, from 1 h to 2 weeks, with an intraoral scanner (3Shape TRIOS 4) before and after immersion in Monster® energy drink and tap water. The scans were superimposed (3Shape TRIOS Patient Monitoring, Version 2.2.3.3, 3Shape A/S, Copengagen, Denmark). Best fit, best-fit tooth comparison, reference best fit using fillings, and palatal rugae as reference points were used for alignment. Surface profile differences were calculated in a cross-section view. The nonparametric Bland-Altman and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used.

RESULTS

First, statistically significant differences were marked after 4 days of immersion. The measurements obtained after 2 weeks of immersion were statistically significantly different from the measurements obtained at the different time points until 1 week. No statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed among the alignment methods at any time.

CONCLUSION

In comparison to the best-fit model, both palatal rugae and fillings can be used. The best-fit tooth comparison method is a reliable option; however, it should be used with caution in cases of major surface loss.

Caffeinated energy drink consumption among Emirati adolescents is associated with a cluster of poor physical and mental health, and unhealthy dietary and lifestyle behaviors: a cross-sectional study

Background

Consumption of caffeinated energy drinks (CED) has escalated during the last few years, especially among schoolchildren, with evident adverse health sequelae in this critical age group.

Objective

This study examined the prevalence of CED consumption and its associations with sleep, physical and mental health, and dietary and lifestyle habits among schoolchildren in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Method

A structured self-administered online questionnaire was developed and disseminated among schoolchildren aged 14-18 years, selected from schools of the seven emirates of the UAE.

Results

More than 4,500 (N= 4,648) responses received. A relatively low prevalence of CED consumption (20%) was found among schoolchildren in the UAE. However, those who reported CED consumption were more likely to report unhealthy dietary (skipping breakfast, frequent snacking, and eating fast foods, low fruit, and vegetable intake) and lifestyle behaviors (long screen time, poor sleep health), in addition to poor self-reported mental and physical health than non-users. CED consumption was significantly and variably associated with multiple sociodemographic factors such as students' nationality, parental companionship, sex, school type, education level (children's and parents'), daily allowance, academic performance, screen time, sleep quality parameters, self-reported physical and mental health, and parents' employment. Sources of knowledge about CED were social media (55%), friends/schoolmates (52%), and family members (52%). Students believed that CED constitute sugar (87%), caffeine (69%), artificial flavors (67%) sweeteners (54%), and stimulating components (43%). The majority (70%) of students reported that CED consumption increases the risks for heart disease, diabetes, high blood sugar (65%), addiction (64%), high blood pressure (59%), and obesity (57%).

Conclusion

These results offer important insights for health professionals, child health specialists, policymakers, and parents in the UAE regarding adolescents' attitudes, knowledge and behaviors toward CED consumption.

Exploring the effects of health behaviors and mental health on students' academic achievement: a cross-sectional study on lebanese university students

BACKGROUND

High academic achievement, an important determinant of future success, is known to be influenced by many factors including dietary behavior, lifestyle and mental health, among others. The objectives of the current study were to explore university students' nutritive habits, daily lifestyle, and mental status, and to scrutinize the associations between these factors and students' academic achievement.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among students of a private Lebanese university, using an electronic survey. Diet, eating habits, physical activity, sleep, and smoking were evaluated, and mental health was assessed using a validated Arabic version of the combined Depression, Anxiety, Stress Score (DASS-8). Academic achievement was measured using the Subjective Academic Achievement Scale (SAAS).

RESULTS

A total of 1677 students participated in the questionnaire. The results of a linear regression taking the SAAS score as the dependent variable, showed that students who have a non-scientific versus scientific major (Beta = 0.53), and having breakfast ≥ 4 days per week compared to less than 2 days (Beta = 0.28) were significantly associated with higher SAAS scores. More psychological distress (Beta = - 0.06) and a higher number of days of eating out (Beta = - 0.07) were significantly associated with lower SAAS scores.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first investigation on a Lebanese university students' academic success in relation to lifestyle and mental profiles. Better academic achievement was demonstrated by students having healthier dietary and lifestyle habits, as well as less distressing mental status. Such results, in light of the compounded and unprecedented crises with which Lebanon has been assailed, suggest the need to focus on promoting healthy habits among students in higher education as a possible driver of better academic success.

Consumption patterns of energy drinks in university students: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Energy drink (ED) use is promoted to stimulate mental and/or physical activity, and their popularity has increased over the years, especially among young people. However, the use of EDs is often improper, and can induce adverse effects for human health. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to analyze the literature to characterize the prevalence of ED consumption and motivations for use among undergraduate students. Furthermore, adverse effects and health-related behaviors associated with ED consumption were explored.

METHODS

This systematic review was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines, and the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were used for data research.

RESULTS

A total of 71 articles published between 2007 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The estimated overall prevalence of ED consumption was 42.9% in undergraduate students (95% confidence interval, 42.5%-43.3%), with significant heterogeneity among studies (Q test: P < 0.001; I² = 99.4%). The main reasons for use were engagement in study, projects or examinations, stay awake or alert, and physical activity/sport engagement. Sleep disturbance and increased heart rate or blood pressure were the most commonly reported adverse effects. ED consumption was frequently associated with alcohol use and smoking.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the inappropriate use of EDs and related unhealthy behaviors should be identified early, and addressed through effective educational interventions.<END ABSTRACT>.

Knowledge and attitude of children about soda and its effects on dental health

The consumption of carbonated beverages or soda drinks has increased due to media advertisements. These drinks have ill effects on dental as well as on general health especially in children and adolescent. Therefore, a study was carried out to check the knowledge and attitude of children in Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire-based study was conducted. It comprises of three parts i) demographic details ii) attitude toward consumption of soda drinks and iii) knowledge about soda drinks. A total of 393 primary elementary School Children age range 5 to 15 years old responded the questionnaire. 47.3% children drank soda on weekly basis. More than half participants did not have knowledge about the effects of soda on health (55.2%) and on teeth (53.9%). The knowledge of children about the effects of soda drinks on dental health in not convincing one. However, their attitude was relatively better. There is a need to improve their practices for prevention of dental and general health.

Knowledge, Consumption Pattern, and Adverse Effects of Energy Drinks among Asian Population: A Cross-Sectional Analysis from Malaysia

Background

The frequent expansion of the energy drinks (EDs) market has caused an extensive increase in the consumption of EDs, especially among younger populations. However, the lack of knowledge on EDs and their perceived beneficial effects could lead to excessive EDs consumption, which is strongly associated with serious side effects. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and perceived beneficial effects of EDs consumers and determine the consumption patterns and side effects experienced by different EDs consumers among the Malaysian population.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Malaysia from February to April 2021. A structured and validated questionnaire, consisting of 5 sections with 46 items, was distributed online. Only 515 out of 591 invited participants agreed to participate in the study. Descriptive and inferential analysis were done using SPSS.

Results

The median age of participants was 23 ± 7.3 years. The majority of participants (65%) were unaware of the active ingredients of EDs, and approximately 40% of them had no idea that EDs contain caffeine. The main reason for consuming EDs was to stay awake (43%), and Red Bull was the most preferred brand (57%). Lack of rest (57%), headache (53%), and nervousness (49%) were the most experienced side effects. A significant difference was observed between consumption patterns and knowledge and perceived beneficial effects (p < 0.05). Our data showed a significant association between respondents' demographic data (e.g., coffee intake, smoking, and alcohol status) and their consumption pattern.

Conclusion

ED consumers in Malaysia were found to have limited knowledge on EDs. Therefore, attention should be drawn to the Ministry of Health regarding the significant side effects such as palpitation and nervousness experienced by ED consumers. Hence, awareness ought to be raised by adopting regulations or policies to regulate the sales and warning labels of EDs in Malaysia.

Energy drink consumption and its relationship to alcohol use disorders and impulsiveness in health sciences students in Turkey

PURPOSE

We aimed to examine energy drink (ED) consumption and its relationship to alcohol use disorders and impulsiveness in health sciences students.

DESIGN AND METHODS

This cross-sectional research was conducted with 1202 health sciences students. Data collection tools were "Energy Drink Consumption Form," "Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT)," and "Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (BIS-11)."

FINDINGS

Of the students, 30.6% who used EDs reported doing so in the past year. AUDIT and BIS-11 scores of students with high ED consumption were higher than those with less ED consumption and who do not consume at all (p < 0.05).

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Education of students in departments of health should include EDs and their drawbacks as part of nutrition or health coursework.

Influence of energy drinks on enamel erosion: In vitro study using different assessment techniques

Background

Dental erosion has become a relevant public health problem in recent years and is related to the increase in the consumption of acidic beverages. Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the erosive potential of energy drinks on dental enamel using an in vitro erosion model.

Material and Methods

Thirty-eight blocks of human enamel were divided into four groups: G1- TNT Energy Drink®(n=8), G2- Red Bull® (n=10), G3- Monster Energy® (n=10), and G4- Coca-Cola® (n=10) (positive control). For the chemical analysis, the pH values, titratable acidity, and buffering capacity of the beverages were measured in triplicate. For the erosive test, the specimens were immersed in the beverages (5ml/block) for 30 minutes at room temperature with gentle shaking. Initial and final surface microhardness values were measured and the percentage of the loss of surface microhardness was calculated. Profilometry (surface loss and lesion depth) and mineral loss analysis (quantitative light-induced fluorescence) were performed. The data were analysed statistically using ANOVA followed by the Bonferroni correction, Pearson’s correlation test, and multiple linear regression (p<0.05).

Results

The energy drinks had pH values ranging from 2.36 to 3.41. The lowest titratable acidity value was recorded for Monster Energy® and the highest was recorded for TNT Energy Drink®. All energy drinks had buffering capacity values higher than Coca-Cola®. Analysing the eroded enamel surface, the specimens submitted to TNT Energy Drink® had the greatest percentage loss of surface microhardness, surface loss, depth, and mineral loss, followed by those submitted to Red Bull® and Monster Energy®. Surface loss was the only predictor of mineral loss (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Based on the study model employed, all the energy drinks examined were erosive to tooth enamel and TNT Energy Drink® had the worst behaviour.

Key words:Energy drinks, tooth erosion, tooth demineralisation, hardness tests, quantitative light-induced fluorescence.

Bibliometric Analysis of Studies on Coffee/Caffeine and Sport

This article provides an empirical overview of coffee/caffeine studies in relation to sport worldwide, an incipient but growing relationship that has existed since 1938, although systematized over time since 1999. The extracted articles were examined using a bibliometric approach based on data from 160 records stored in the Web of Science (JCR) between 1938 and August 2021, applying traditional bibliometric laws and using VOSviewer for data and metadata processing. Among the results, these articles highlight an exponential increase in scientific production in the last two decades, with a concentration in only 12 specific journals, the hegemony of the USA among the co-authorship networks of worldwide relevance, and the thematic and temporal segregation of the concepts under study. This article concludes a high fragmentation of the authors with the highest level of scientific production and an evolution of almost 20 years in relevant thematic topics, and a concurrent concentration in three large blocks: (1) coffee consumption and risk factors, (2) health and coffee consumption, and (3) metabolism and sport correlated with the intake of coffee, which are distanced in time, providing evidence of an evolution that gives way to the irruption of alternative visions in the relationship of coffee and caffeine with sport.

Relevance of body mass index and bioelectrical impedance analysis vs. deuterium dilution technique to assess excess of fat among young adults

Our study aimed to assess the nutritional status by using body composition among young Tunisian adults through three measurement methods: body mass index (BMI), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and deuterium oxide dilution technique (²H₂O) and to determine the accuracy of BMI and BIA in order to evaluate the overweight and obesity among young adults in Tunisia. Our study involved 144 young adults. Anthropometric parameters were measured. The fat mass percentage (%FM) was determined by ²H₂O and BIA techniques. The analysis of deuterium enrichment was performed using a Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR). According to BMI, 26.4% of subjects were overweight and 5.5% were obese. The mean of %FM estimated by BIA was significantly higher than that determined by ²H₂O (29.7 ± 7.7 vs. 26.3 ± 10.6, p < .0001). Consequently, the prevalence of overweight and obesity assessed by BIA was significantly higher than by ²H₂O (51.4% vs. 34%, p < .0001). Using BMI, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was similar to that estimated by ²H₂O (31.9% vs. 34%, p = 0.544). Compared to ²H₂O, BIA overestimates the prevalence of overweight and obesity in young adults. On the other hand, the BMI showed an interesting correlation with the %FM determined by ²H₂O.