Changes in dietary habits of medical and dental students and its impact on their quality of life and body mass index

Background and Objective: Dietary habits are one of the most important factors that play a significant role in maintaining optimal health and body mass index (BMI). The objective of this study was to investigate and determine how changes in dietary pattern of medical and dental students can impact their BMI and quality of life. Method: This cross-sectional study included 190 medical and dental students from a local private medical and dental college in Lahore, Pakistan. All participants filled out a validated online questionnaire having 30 questions divided into four sections. The responses were scaled in three tiers and the data was collected and analysed using statistical software. Results: A total of 32.6% of students rated their quality of life as good with respect to dietary habits while 81.6% rated physical environment as moderately healthy with very many difficulties in concentrating (19.5%) and poor physical energy levels (31.1%). A notable percentage (12.6) reported not to have enough financial stability to meet their dietary needs. Satisfaction levels regarding their own health status varied with mixed responses. Negative feelings were frequent (70.5%), and a majority noted changes in eating habits and observed an increase in weight relating to BMI. Conclusion: Most of the medical and dental students after enrolling into their respective colleges face adverse changes in dietary habits. Taking educational stress and managing ones daily activities show a limited balance with resultantly lower quality of life and a higher BMI.