INSP Study: 70% of young people consume sweetened beverages more than once a day

Many teenagers in Romania consume sweetened beverages several times a day and rarely eat fruit and vegetables, according to a study conducted by the National Institute of Public Health in high schools across the country.

The data show that a significant proportion of students frequently choose sweetened beverages, while foods considered essential for a balanced diet are consumed rarely and in small quantities. The study thus highlights dietary habits that may affect young people’s health and persist over the long term.

Dr. Eugenia Bratu, head of the Health Promotion Department within the INSP, draws attention to the high sugar content of these beverages. According to her, sweetened drinks are “empty calories” because they provide energy without significant nutritional value and promote fat accumulation.

Specialists emphasize the importance of increasing fruit and vegetable consumption and reducing sugary drinks among teenagers. The INSP study once again highlights the need to promote healthy eating habits in schools and at home.