Sugar and Immunity: A Behavioral Study on Sweet Consumption and Cold Frequency

This study explores the potential relationship between sugar consumption patterns and the frequency of common cold symptoms among Thai individuals in everyday settings. Using self-reported data from behavioral categories such as soda intake, noodle sweetening habits, dessert consumption frequency, and overall added sugar use, we analyzed patterns in cold occurrence across varying levels of sugar consumption. The findings reveal that individuals who consumed sugary soft drinks more than three times per week had a higher likelihood (33.3%) of experiencing colds more than once per month, compared to only 7.0% among those consuming soft drinks just 1–2 times per week. Likewise, the proportion of participants who reported no cold symptoms was significantly higher among those with lower sugar consumption (82.5%) versus high consumers (66.7%). Similar trends were observed across dessert and added-sugar eating behaviors. These results suggest a potential inverse relationship between the amount of dietary sugar consumed and immune resilience in the context of upper respiratory infections. While not definitive, the data support further exploration of how habitual sugar intake may impact immune function in daily life. Public health strategies aimed at reducing excessive sugar consumption may indirectly contribute to reduced cold frequency and improved wellness.