Keywords
Lifestyles
University Students
Physical Activity
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction: The transition to university life among adolescents is often associated with decreased physical activity and poorer eating habits, including increased consumption of sugar- and fat-rich foods. Aims: This study aimed to assess adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern and to characterise lifestyle behaviours—namely alcohol consumption, smoking habits, and physical activity—among university students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire, distributed via institutional email and Facebook, and available throughout May 2022. Data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, dietary intake (assessed with the PREDIMED questionnaire), and physical activity (measured using the IPAQ). Results: The sample included 62 participants, predominantly female (85.5%) and undergraduate students (88.7%), with half enrolled in a public higher education institution. Approximately 30% were overweight (pre-obesity/obesity). The median PREDIMED score was 9 (IQR: 7–10). Most students did not smoke or consume alcohol regularly. Nonetheless, participants reported spending an average of 7 hours per day in sedentary activities, with 71.2% citing lack of time as a barrier to physical activity. A positive correlation was observed between age and PREDIMED score (r = 0.436; p < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of implementing targeted interventions to promote healthy lifestyle habits among university students.
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