Physical Activity and Eating Habits Impact on Attentiveness and Academic Achievement Among Health Specialty Students in University of Hail

Abstract

Background: Healthy lifestyle behaviors such as eating well, exercising, getting enough sleep, managing stress, not using drugs, depending on social support, and limiting screen time are well-established factors of continuing good health, as they reduce the risk of sickness and increase well-being. The importance of nutrition in the development of young individuals cannot be overstated. Eating habits formed as teens and young adults have a long-term impact on behavior and have a significant impact on adult life. The aim of our study was to assess the pattern of physical activity, eating habits and their impact on academic performance among university students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted by a self-administered structured online survey tool through the “SurveyMonkey” platform among medical university students. All participants fulfilling the inclusion criteria were invited to participate. Results: Our study concluded with 317 respondents. Mild activity like walking was performed by 31.2% of respondents on average of six-seven days while 71.3% respondents performed moderate activity on a once-a-week basis and vigorous activity was performed by 61.5% participants on average of one day a week. Among our participants only 30.5% agreed to have regular eating habits. Conclusion: Health education and promotion to create awareness and highlight the importance of physical activity among university students is the need of the hour. Students should also be encouraged to have healthy eating habits which will not only improve academic performance but will also have positive impact on their lifestyle. Keywords: Physical activity, eating habits, university students, academic, performance