Dietary Habits of Undergraduate Medical Students - A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The problem of overweight and obesity among young adultsis steadily rising, forming a key link to the upsurge of other non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, stroke and myocardial infarction. These diseases have a complex aetiology but can be easily prevented by adopting healthy dietary and lifestyle habits. A study was conducted to assess the dietary habits of medical students, as it is believed that medical students have a higher level of knowledge regarding appropriate diet and its influence on health. Objective: To study the dietary habits of undergraduate medical students. Material and Methods: It was across-sectional study that included all the students in a medical college. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire from 613 students after taking informed consent. Results: Only 58.9 and 43.7% of the students consumed a diet adequate in calories and proteins, respectively. The female students’ diet was more deficient in proteins (62.2 vs. 49.5%). Majority of the students snacked once a day (73%). Junk food consumption was reported by 9.1% of the students daily. Approximately 56% skipped meals, breakfast was the common missed meal and it was due to disliking food and lack of time. There was a statistically significant association between meal skipping and academic years. Their knowledge regarding healthy dietary habits was poor. Conclusion: Dietary habits of medical students were found to be unhealthy. There is a need to create awareness and interest regarding healthy diet and time management among this future physician population.