Relación entre el consumo de alimentos ultraprocesados, según el nivel de actividad física y la calidad de vida en estudiantes universitarios de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil.

Abstract

The consumption of ultra-processed foods is an increasingly prevalent problem in the region. When combined with factors such as low levels of physical activity, these factors can negatively impact people's quality of life. University students in the health sciences are particularly vulnerable to the consumption of ultra-processed foods due to class schedules, intramural and extracurricular activities, and intense academic demands. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between the consumption of ultra-processed foods, physical activity, and quality of life among university students at the Faculty of Health Sciences of the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil. The methodology employed an observational, correlational, and cross-sectional design. One hundred university students participated. A sociodemographic questionnaire, a food frequency questionnaire based on the NOVA classification, the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), and the WHOQOL-BREF scale were administered. Spearman's rho coefficient was used to analyze the association between variables. The results showed a high frequency of consumption of ultra-processed foods, especially sugary drinks, packaged snacks, fast food, and processed meats. Physical activity levels were predominantly low, with a prevalence of prolonged sedentary behavior. Regarding quality of life, intermediate responses predominated, with the greatest impact on sleep, perceived support, and negative feelings. Spearman's rho correlation analysis did not reveal a statistically significant association between the consumption of ultra-processed foods, the level of physical activity, and quality of life (p > 0.05). In conclusion, university students exhibited high consumption of ultra-processed foods and low levels of physical activity, with a perceived quality of life ranging from fair to moderate, highlighting the need to strengthen strategies for promoting healthy habits within the university environment.