Pattern of Empty Calories Consumption, Emotions and Withdrawal Effects among Tertiary Institution Students in Sokoto, Nigeria

Consumption of empty calories such as energy drinks, sweetened beverages and caffeinated teas is increasingly common among tertiary students to enhance alertness and academic performance, but is associated with emotional dependence and withdrawal effects. To assess the pattern of empty calories consumption, positive emotions derived, and withdrawal effects experienced among tertiary institution students in Sokoto, Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 110 tertiary institution students in Sokoto. Data on forms of empty calories consumed, positive emotions and withdrawal symptoms were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency and percentages. The most commonly consumed form of empty calories was energy drinks 48 (43.6%), followed by sweet drinks/beverages 32 (29.1%) and Lipton tea 26 (23.6%). Positive emotions reported after consumption were feeling energized 36 (32.7%), happiness and satisfaction 25 (22.7%) each, and feeling awake 24 (21.8%). However, withdrawal effects were significant, with anxiety being the most prevalent 62 (56.3%), followed by insomnia 20 (18.1%), sweating 16 (14.5%) and sadness 12 (10.9%). Energy drinks are the dominant form of empty calories consumed by students, primarily for energizing and mood elevation effects. Despite short-term positive emotions, withdrawal is characterized by high anxiety and insomnia, indicating dependence. There is need for health education and school health interventions on healthy alternatives for energy and alertness.