Abstract

Background:
The relationship between stress and dietary patterns is a significant factor influencing student well being. Stress and emotional states can trigger physiological responses that alter eating behaviors, leading to either an increase or decrease in appetite.

Aim:
This study aimed to investigate the association between stress, dietary patterns, and emotional eating among high school students in Amritsar, India.

Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted with 475 high school students (261 females and 214 males). The survey utilized the perceived stress scale and the emotional eater questionnaire to assess stress levels and emotional eating behaviors. Data on general characteristics, Body Mass Index (BMI), dietary habits, and sleep patterns were also collected.

Results:
The average weight, height, and BMI of the female participants were 53.18 kg, 163.50 cm, and 21.77 kg/ m², respectively, whereas those of the male participants were 61.22 kg, 167.94 cm, and 19.63 kg/m². Females had higher average stress and emotional eating scores (23.25 and 11.57, respectively) than (19.95 and 9.23, respectively). A positive correlation was observed between stress scores and emotional eating tendencies. Stress levels tended to increase as students progressed to higher grades, with 12th graders experiencing the highest levels of stress.

Conclusion:
Higher stress levels are associated with increased emotional eating among high school students. Effective stress management strategies are essential to promote healthier eating habits and overall well-being in this population. Further research is required to explore intervention strategies and the impact of cultural factors on these behaviors.

Key words: Stress in adolescents, Dietary patterns, High School Students, Eating behaviors, Perceived stress