Composición corporal y hábitos alimentarios en estudiantes de la Carrera de Nutrición y Dietética de la Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil durante el periodo de mayo – julio 2024.

Abstract

Globally, non-communicable chronic diseases result in the deaths of 15 million people annually between the ages of 30 and 69. Maintaining body composition and healthy eating habits among students are critical aspects for preventing these diseases and promoting optimal academic and physical performance. This research aims to determine body composition and dietary habits among university students. The study is descriptive in scope, employing a quantitative approach, observational design, and cross-sectional methodology. A random sample of 53 students was selected, and food consumption frequency was assessed, along with body composition determined through bioimpedance and anthropometry. The results show that the students have a median age of 21 years, a weight of 61.9 kg, an average height of 1.61 m, and a median BMI of 23.53 kg/m². Approximately 39.62% have low lean mass, with 56.60% of students falling within the normal BMI range, suggesting that most are in an appropriate weight range. Female students present greater fat mass, while males exhibit higher lean mass. Notably, 35.85% of the students are classified as overweight or obese grade I, indicating that BMI alone is insufficient for assessing body composition. The dietary pattern of the study participants shows high consumption of bread, cereals, tubers, snacks, and fast food, while there is insufficient intake of dairy products, fruits, oils and fats, and sweets and sugars. Finally, the consumption of eggs, meats, and processed meats meets recommended levels.