Patterns of Beverage Consumption Among Saudi Residents and Associated Demographic Factors: A Nationwide Survey

Background/Objectives: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are strongly linked to beverage consumption. This study aimed to assess the average daily beverage intake of Saudi residents, energy intake from beverages, and the influence of socio-demographic factors, health behaviors, and health status on beverage intake. Methods: A nationally representative, cross-sectional study utilized stratified quota sampling to survey adults (≥18 years) across all 13 administrative regions of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from April 2022 to December 2023 using the validated Arabic Beverage Frequency Questionnaire (ABFQ), assessing consumption patterns of 28 beverage types. Results: The study included 4385 participants (mean age: 36.1 ± 11.14 years, 65% male). Sweetened tea (28 mL/day), regular soft drinks (22.1 mL/day), and Saudi coffee (18 mL/day) were the most frequent beverages after water. Sweetened tea contributed to the highest average energy intake (33.2 ± 46.4 kcal/day). Consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) was higher among younger individuals (18-29 years: OR: 4.0, 95% CI [2.6-6.3]; 30-44 years: OR: 2.8, 95% CI [1.8-4.3]), males (OR:1.6, 95% CI [1.4-1.8]), and residents of specific regions [Al-Jawf (OR: 1.9, 95% CI [1.2-3.2]) and Jazan (OR: 3.2, 95% CI [2.2-4.7])]. Higher water intakes were associated with males (OR: 1.5, 95% CI [1.3-1.7]), higher education levels (OR: 1.4, 95% CI [1.2-1.8]), physically active (OR: 1.5, 95% CI [1.3-1.8]), and those overweight (OR: 1.6, 95% CI [1.2-2.3]) or obese (OR: 2, 95% CI [1.4-2.8]). Conclusions: This study provides a valuable insight into beverage consumption patterns among Saudi residents. The findings highlight the need for targeted public health interventions to promote healthier beverage choices, particularly among younger populations and those with lower socioeconomic status.