Study claims excessive sugar intake leads to anti-social behavior

Scientists involved over 100,000 children between the ages of 11 and 15 in a recent study that concluded an excessive intake of sugary drinks leads to more anti-social tendencies than consumption of sweets and chocolate. This is food for thought considering Public Health England figures show that our children consume twice their recommended daily sugar allowance. The children were asked about their involvement in fighting, bullying, smoking and drinking together with their consumption habits of sugary drinks, sweets, and chocolate. Those at the highest end of the consumption scale were 78% more likely to be involved in such anti-social behaviour.

A representative of the study said: “This study underscores the importance of directing public health attention to the interconnections between healthy nutrition and behavioural tendencies during adolescent years. Since sugary drinks also often contain additives, including caffeine, it is possible sugar in combination with some additives makes soft drinks a more powerful or consistent predictor.”

Dr Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist at Public Health England, said: “Snacks and drinks are adding unnecessary sugar to children’s diets without us even noticing. Swapping to lower or no added sugar alternatives is something all parents can work towards.”