Nutritional status and eating habits in a sample of undergraduate students

Abstract

The main purpose of the study is to determine the nutritional status of a sample of students in the Food Science program in Universidad de Guadalajara. The research arises from identifying university students as a vulnerable group who, due to unhealthy eating and physical activity habits, put their long-term well-being and health at risk. A descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 119 students. Data collection was carried out using Google Forms, which included sociodemographic data, a 24-hour dietary recall, and consumption frequency. Additionally, anthropometric measurements (weight and height) were taken to calculate the Body Mass Index (BMI). Nutritional data processing was performed using Nutrimind software, and statistical analysis (ANOVA, means, and standard deviation) was conducted in Excel. The BMI diagnosis revealed that 54% of students have a normal weight, while 37% present issues related to excess weight (21% overweight and 16% obesity) and 9% are underweight. A critical finding is the caloric deficit: 64% consume less than 1500 kcal daily (24% consume less than 1000 kcal and 40% between 1001-1500 kcal). Finally, although 52% engage in physical activity, they do not meet WHO recommendations, confirming risks for the students' future health.