ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HIGH-CAFFEINE BEVERAGE CONSUMPTION AND MENTAL DISORDERS IN NUTRITION STUDENTS IN A CITY IN WESTERN PARANÁ

Mental health disorders have been rising significantly among university students, with anxiety and depression being prevalent conditions in this population. The academic environment, characterized by high cognitive demands, stress, and emotional overload, may favor the development or worsening of these disorders. In this context, many students consume beverages and products rich in caffeine in an attempt to improve alertness, concentration, and academic performance. However, excessive caffeine intake, particularly above 400 mg/day, may trigger or exacerbate anxiety and depressive symptoms, compromising mental health and quality of life. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between caffeine consumption and symptoms of anxiety and depression among university students. This cross-sectional study used convenience sampling and was conducted with 100 students enrolled in the Nutrition program at Univel University Center, all aged 18 years or older. Participants completed a food and beverage frequency questionnaire assessing caffeine-containing products and a screening instrument for anxiety and depression symptoms after signing the Informed Consent Form. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Unioeste (CAAE: 86661525.2.0000.0107; Opinion No. 7.472.680). The sample consisted predominantly of women (81%), distributed across different academic periods. Traditional coffee was the main source of caffeine, consumed by 80% of participants, with an estimated mean caffeine intake of 1,202.01 mg/day, approximately three times the recommended daily limit. High frequencies of consumption of cola soft drinks (77%), energy drinks (65%), and milk chocolate (59%) were also observed. Regarding mental health, 28% of students presented probable anxiety, with a mean score of 13.64 ± 1.68, while 35% presented possible anxiety. For depression, 28% were classified as possible cases and 2% as probable cases, with a mean score of 12.00 ± 0.00. A significant association was observed between higher caffeine consumption and increased depression scores, as well as a positive trend toward anxiety symptoms (p < 0.05). It is concluded that excessive caffeine consumption among university students is associated with adverse mental health outcomes, highlighting the need for food and nutrition education strategies, guidance on safe caffeine consumption, and institutional actions aimed at promoting mental health in the academic environment.