Sweetened beverage consumption and its association with overweight and obesity across population groups in the Philippines

Introduction: The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity has been a major nutritional concern. Evidence shows that habitual or excessive sweetened beverage (SB) consumption is associated with weight gain and obesity. This study assessed the SB consumption across different age groups and determined its association with overweight and obesity. Methods: Data of 31,003 preschool children, school-age children, adolescents, and adults from 2018- 2019 Expanded National Nutrition Survey were utilised. Data on SB consumption, type, and quantity were obtained from 24-hour food recalls, and participants’ nutritional status was assessed. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to evaluate association between SB consumption and obesity using STATA 16. Results: Mean SB intake per day increased with age. Nearly 48% of preschool children, 33% of schoolchildren, 24% of adolescents, and 21% of adults consumed SBs amounting to >10% of total energy intake. Males, urban dwellers, and those with higher socioeconomic status were more likely to consume SBs. After controlling for sex, age, wealth, and place of residence, children and adults with higher SB intake, and all age groups with higher sugar intake from SB per day were more likely to be overweight and obese. Conclusion: SB consumption was higher among older age groups, males, urban dwellers, and those with higher socioeconomic status. High consumption of SBs was associated with overweight and obesity. Revisiting current nutrition policies, particularly the food-based dietary guidelines and front-of-pack labelling, and necessary regulations are needed to reduce SB consumption and control obesity in the Philippines.