Consumption of Energy Drinks among Italian University students: a cross-sectional multicenter study

• DOI: 10.1007/s00394-023-03140-w
• Publication Date: 2023-04-06T14:02:46Z
• Authors: Carmela Protano; Federica Valeriani; Andrea De Giorgi; Silvia Angelillo; Annalisa Bargellini; Aida Bianco; Lavinia Bianco; Giuseppina Caggiano; Maria Eugenia Col...; Maria Anna Coniglio; Laura Dallolio; Osvalda De Giglio; Gabriella Di Gius...; Heba Safwat Mhmou...; Maria Eufemia Gio...; Pasqualina Laganà; Francesca Licata; Isabella Marchesi; Alice Masini; Maria Teresa Mont...; Christian Napoli; Giovanni Battista...; Cesira Pasquarella; Concetta Paola Pe...; Stefania Paduano; Rossella Sacchetti; Giacomo Scaioli; Roberta Siliquini; Licia Veronesi; Giorgio Liguori; Vincenzo Romano S...; Matteo Vitali; Francesca Gallè
• Keywords: Mediterranean Diet; Cross-sectional study

Abstract Purpose The aim of the study was to evaluate caffeinated Energy Drinks (EDs) consumption among a large sample Italian undergraduates and its association with some major lifestyle risk factors. Methods Students attending twelve public universities were involved between October 2021 May 2022. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, ED consumption, health-related behaviors participants collected by use web-based questionnaire. Results A total 2165 students participated in 15.2% them reported having used EDs last six months, mainly once month (41.5%). In comparison non-users, users showed higher proportion males ( p < 0.001) father’s educational level = 0.003), came from Northern 0.004) life sciences degree courses 0.001). Besides, BMI values more particular dietary regimens 0.001), levels weekly moderate–vigorous physical activity participation sports team smokers alcohol drinkers 0.005). negatively related female gender (OR 0.546; 95% CI 0.374–0.798), Mediterranean diet 0.587; 0.362–0.951) coming center Italy 0.500; 0.275–0.909) positively associated tobacco smoke 1.712; 1.176–2.492) sport 1.686; 1.051–2.707). Conclusion These findings could encourage figures engaged education increase students’ awareness this issue order prevent excessive unhealthy behaviors, especially most interested subgroups.