Energy drink consumption among Israeli-Arab adolescents: Gender differences in anxiety and well-being

Background: Israeli-Arab adolescents are reported to consume higher amounts of fast food, sweets, and candies. This study examined possible associations among energy drink consumption, anxiety, and well-being in Israeli-Arab adolescents. We also investigated these associations concerning fast food consumption, physical activity, and hours of sleep per night. Methods: A cross-sectional exploratory study assessed adolescents’ energy drink consumption, nutritional and lifestyle habits, well-being, and anxiety using self-reported questionnaires. Adolescents aged 12–18 from several cities and villages in northern Israel were considered for the study. Anthropometric measurements—weight, height, and waist circumference—were also assessed. Results: One hundred and fourteen adolescents (59 females) participated in the study. 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 nonconsumers (73.02 ± 2.64 and 23 ± 1.56 vs. 79.37 ± 1.67 and 18.86 ± 1.41, respectively). Energy drink consumers ate significantly more fast food per week than nonconsumers (1.25 ± 0.07 vs. 1.03 ± 0.09). Additionally, hours of sleep per night were correlated with anxiety levels among energy drink consumers [r_s = 0.352, p = 0.018]. 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.