Soft and energy drinks consumption and associated factors in Saudi adults: a national cross-sectional study

Abstract

IntroductionThe consumption of soft and energy drinks poses a significant risk for non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. Studies in Saudi Arabia have reported elevated consumption of soft/energy drinks, but nation-wide data is not available. Therefore, this study aims to explore the prevalence of soft and energy drinks consumption and its associated factors among a representative sample of Saudi adults.MethodsThe present research is a secondary data analysis of the 2021 Sharik Diet and Health National Survey (SDHNS). Current analysis used data on socio-demographics, anthropometrics, physical activity, and soft and energy drink consumption. The frequency of soft and energy drinks consumption is assessed on a weekly basis.ResultsOf the 5,194 Saudi adults, 3,928 were analyzed. Overall, 67% consumed soft drinks weekly, while 30% consumed energy drinks weekly. In multiple logistic regression, consumption of either soft drinks or energy drinks was associated with males, a younger age, lower income, and lower physical activity. Individuals with overweight or obesity were less likely to consume energy drinks [OR (95%CI): 0.83 (0.71, 0.99) and 0.73 (0.60, 0.90), respectively] than those with healthy weight. However, education level was not associated with either soft or energy drink consumption. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions designed to reduce soft and energy drinks consumption in Saudi adults.

Highlighting Soft Drinks Consumption in Lebanon

“…Nevertheless, these studies reported high consumption of soft drinks by the Saudi and UAE populations. Aljaadi, Turki, Gazzaz, et al (2023) found that -About 67% reported consuming soft drinks at least once a week, with more males than females reporting weekly consumption.‖ Exhibit 1 shows the UAE and Saudi Arabia's high consumption of soft drinks with a rate of 103 and 89 liters per person per year, respectively.…”

Medical and forensic aspects of energy drinks and caffeine shots

“…There is continuous development in this industry, with producers regularly introducing new products to the market that differ in composition, flavour, as well as unique colouring or labels designed to attract specific consumers. Currently, producers are offering increasingly innovative solutions, such as caffeine shots, 'sugar-free' drinks, or beverages enriched with natural ingredients, aligning with the current trend of promoting a healthy lifestyle [4]. Due to intense competition in the energy drink market, manufacturers place significant emphasis on marketing, often utilizing viral marketing strategies.…”