Scrolling for Health: Analyzing University Students’ Health Literacy Regarding Sugar-Sweetened Beverages, Consumption Habits, and the Influence of Social Media Health Content

This study examined the relationship between health literacy, social media influence, and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) consumption patterns among university students. Using a mixed-method approach that integrated quantitative data, qualitative analysis, and word cloud visualization, the research involved 309 students from the Faculty of Education at Universitas Negeri Jakarta. Findings revealed that while 87.7% of respondents demonstrated “good” knowledge about SSBs and their health impacts, a significant disconnect existed between knowledge and behavior, with 89.3% consuming SSBs occasionally. Social media was the primary information source (92.5%), particularly TikTok and Instagram, although credibility varied across platforms. Emotional factors such as stress and habitual patterns emerged as the main drivers of consumption, proving stronger than health considerations in influencing consumption decisions. Despite understanding general health risks such as diabetes, sore throat, or acne, students showed limited comprehension of technical details like the recommended daily sugar intake limit (4 teaspoons) or how to read nutrition labels. The research highlighted that students preferred visual and concise content on social media platforms, with many stating they would skip lengthy text-based information. This study underscores the critical gap between theoretical health knowledge and practical application among university students, emphasizing the need for educational strategies that align with students’ digital consumption preferences and address specific knowledge deficiencies in SSB-related health literacy.