Dietary behaviour and body composition among young adults aged 18-25 years: a cross-sectional study using bioelectrical impedance analysis

Background: Dietary behaviour and body composition are closely interrelated determinants of nutritional and metabolic health. Young adulthood (18-25 years) is a critical transition period during which lifestyle changes predispose individuals to unfavourable eating patterns and adverse shifts in body composition. This study examined dietary behaviour, nutrient intake, and body composition among young adults using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 138 undergraduate and postgraduate students (18–25 years) selected through stratified random sampling. Anthropometric measures, body composition (via BIA) and habitual dietary intake (via a validated food frequency questionnaire) were assessed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: Meal skipping was more common among males (37.1% vs. 19.4%, χ²=9.12, p<0.05), while low protein intake was more common among females (60.2% vs. 8.6%). Elevated percent body fat was observed in 60.9% of participants, with higher prevalence among females (71.9% vs. 28.6%, χ²=20.61) and older students aged 22–25 years (70.6% vs. 55.2%, χ²=6.98). Fat control was poorer among females and older students, while muscle control was favourable overall (89.1%). Segmental lean and fat distribution showed no significant age-group differences. Conclusions: Despite generally favourable muscle control, female and older students demonstrated elevated body fat, inadequate protein and micronutrient intake and unhealthy eating behaviours. These findings underscore the need for targeted nutrition education and lifestyle intervention among university students with particular attention to female and older sub-groups.