A meta-analysis of nine studies found that greater consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages was associated with a 34% increased risk of anxiety disorders[1]. Researchers from Bournemouth University have identified a clear link between high consumption of sugary drinks and anxiety symptoms in adolescents[1]. However, the researchers stress that the results do not provide direct evidence that drinking more sugary drinks directly causes anxiety, as it is possible that the opposite relationship also exists – that anxiety symptoms lead to more sugary drink consumption[1]. Excessive consumption of energy drinks can cause acute health problems in young people, such as irregular heart rhythm and breathing difficulties[1]. Anxiety disorders in adolescents have increased sharply in recent years, so it is important to identify lifestyle habits that can be changed[1]. Researchers stress the need for more research to determine what directly causes this association between sugary drink consumption and anxiety disorders[1].