Fasting Plasma Glucose Levels in Relation to the Nutritional Status, Dietary Intake, and Lifestyle Factors among a Group of Sri Lankan Undergraduates: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global public health concern intricately linked to dietary habits, physical inactivity, and other lifestyle factors. Objectives: This cross-sectional study aimed to elucidate the associations between fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels, nutritional status, dietary patterns, and lifestyle factors among undergraduates at the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. Materials & Methods: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements were obtained following standard protocols. Fasting plasma glucose was quantified using the GOD- PAP method. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate statistical tools. Results: Participants (n = 100) were in the age range of 20 - 28 years and 58% were females. Their FPG levels ranged from 70 to 108 mg/dL with 3% of impaired fasting glycaemia (IFG) and no instances of DM. Mean (SD) BMI was 20.9 (3.4) kg/m2. Among them, 29% were overweight or obese. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between FPG and both waist circumference (p=0.004) and BMI (p=0.019). Dietary assessment revealed suboptimal adherence to recommended portion sizes across all six food categories. Despite 82% consuming three main meals per day, meal-skipping was reported by 36% of the participants. Adequate water intake was reported among 60%, the majority abstained from alcohol and smoking. However, a considerable percentage reported consumption of junk foods. Physical inactivity and inadequate sleep were reported by 73% and 72% of the participants respectively. Conclusions: The prevalence of IFG among the studied undergraduate population is low. However, the majority exhibited suboptimal dietary practices and insufficient engagement in physical activities, which warrant further attention for preventive health strategies.