Variation in body mass index, body fat percentage, lipid profile, and habits in first-semester students of the Clinical Laboratory Program at the Faculty of Medical Sciences, Central University of Ecuador, 2021-2022
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29166/rfcmq.v48i2.5858Keywords:
body composition, eating behavior, physical activity, student health servicesAbstract
Introduction: The university educational system, characterized by more stringent intellectual, emotional, and physical demands and often occurring away from the home environment, exposes young adults to new and increasing academic challenges. This environment can lead to stress, alterations in eating habits and physical activity, resulting in poor nutrition and increased sedentariness, which are risk factors for metabolic, cardiovascular, and endocrine diseases.
Objective: To determine the variations in body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, lipid profile, and lifestyle habits among university students.
Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional analytical study, BMI, body fat percentage, and lipid profile were assessed, as well habits related to alcohol consumption, smoking, diet, physical activity, and stress. This was accomplished by applying two validated instruments to 46 first-semester students of both sexes, aged 18 to 22 years.
Results: Statistically significant increases were observed in lipid profiles, body fat percentage, BMI, and stress levels, notable changes were also found in dietary habits and physical activity. The consumption of fruits and vegetables showed a significant positive correlation with cholesterol levels (r=0.312, p=0.035) and HDL (r=0.342, p=0.020), but not with the other health variables evaluated.
Discussion: The findings are consistent with previous studies that also identified factors such as high academic demands and lack of time as influencing the nutrition of university students.
Conclusion: The study reveals negative changes in the health of students during their transition to university life, affecting their BMI, body fat percentage, lipid profile, and lifestyle habits.
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Copyright (c) 2023 Danny Asimbaya Alvarado, Eliana M Champutiz Ortiz , Cristina E Toscano Gallardo
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