Sweet relief, costly consequences
How stress is pushing Malaysians towards sugar — and into a dangerous cycle
SHAH ALAM — Behind Malaysia’s sugar consumption lies a deeper psychological pattern, with experts warning that stress and emotional eating are increasingly driving unhealthy habits.
For many Malaysians, sugar is no longer just a dietary component — it has become a coping mechanism, creating a cycle that affects both physical and mental health.
From sweetened drinks to desserts and processed snacks, sugary foods are often used as a quick fix for stress, offering temporary relief but longer-term consequences.
Malaysian Psycho-Spiritual Well-being Association deputy chairman Dr Adnan Omar said this pattern is closely linked to the body’s stress response, particularly the release of cortisol.
“When we encounter stress, our bodies release cortisol, which helps regulate metabolism, blood pressure and blood sugar levels. In short bursts, it is beneficial, but when stress becomes chronic, cortisol levels remain elevated,” he said.
Over time, he said, prolonged high cortisol levels can contribute to weight gain, obesity, weakened immunity and cardiovascular issues.
At the same time, sugar consumption triggers a temporary emotional response.
Dr Adnan noted that sugar is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, causing a spike in blood glucose levels and a short-lived increase in serotonin, the hormone associated with feelings of happiness and well-being.
“This creates a temporary sense of relief, which is why many people turn to foods like chocolate, candy and cakes during stressful periods,” he said.
However, the effect is short-lived.
“After the initial boost, blood sugar levels drop quickly, leading to fatigue and renewed cravings. Over time, this creates a repetitive cycle that becomes difficult to break,” he added.
Dr Adnan warned that this pattern can evolve into a long-term coping mechanism, with individuals increasingly relying on food to manage emotional distress.
Chronic stress may also impair cognitive function and emotional regulation, raising the risk of anxiety and depression.
“This is why using food as a coping tool is not a healthy or sustainable strategy. It may feel effective in the short term, but it can worsen both mental and physical health over time,” he said.
Adding to the concern, Columbia Asia Hospital Bukit Jalil consultant endocrinologist Dr Hazwani Aziz said the broader health impact of sugar consumption must be viewed within the context of Malaysia’s rising obesity rates.
She noted that the widespread availability of high-sugar foods, sweetened beverages and ultra-processed meals has made it easier than ever to consume excess calories.
“Obesity has become a serious global health issue and Malaysia is among the most affected in Southeast Asia. The accessibility of high-sugar and high-calorie foods has further accelerated this trend,” she said.
She also highlighted the role of stress and poor sleep in disrupting hormonal balance, particularly cortisol regulation, which contributes to fat accumulation around internal organs — a condition known as central obesity.
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