Adequate nutrition and physical activity are of great importance for the general health and school success of individual, and for preventing obesity, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and cancer. The aim of study is to reveal the dimensions of the nutrition and physical activity behaviors of students in the 1-6 years of our medical faculty. In this study, 670 people (58.6%) were reached. The dependent variables are physical activity, nutrition, and body mass index (BMI). 16.3% of the students were overweight or obese; only 37.7% had a physical exercise at least one day a week. 29.4% of the students skip meals very often, 30.7% made a diet in the last 12 months. Students BMI> 25 had less diet; use more addictive substances, less participate in organized activities; are members of the community to a lesser extent and personal beliefs were found to be weaker. The most important variables affecting BMI are body perception and participation in organized activities. Living in a family home or dormitory and having room are the factors that affect the nutrition behavior positively and at least one cigarette per day affects negatively. The most important factors affecting adequate physical activity are to pay attention to weight, to make a holiday, to meet with friends in the evening and to study less than 2 hours per day. Being upper grades, not participating in organized activities, and depressive mood are other factors cause physical inactivity. In conclusion, systemic exercise and eating habits are insufficient. Students' positive habits are gradually decreasing as the period progresses. Faculty administrations should take measures for health promotion activities and should concentrate on students who are in grades 4 and above.
Key words: Nutrition research, obesity, exercise epidemiology, young adult
|
