Food Consumption Pattern and Body Mass Index of Adolescents − A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Context: Adolescence is a period of growth spurt. During this crucial period, food intake patterns are set in place and these patterns can have vital impact on lifetime nutritional status and health of the individuals. Aim: The present study aimed to assess food consumption pattern of adolescent girls and to associate the same with the body mass index (BMI). Materials and methods: A quantitative research approach and a descriptive design were adopted for the study. Nonprobability purposive sampling technique was used to select 217 adolescents (girls) in the age group of 13 to 18 years after obtaining informed consent. Researcher-designed questionnaire was developed to collect the data on demographic profile. A food frequency questionnaire was used to elicit information regarding food consumption pattern (general and fast food) for over four months during the period of study from December 2018 to February 2019. The height and weight were measured using inch tape and weighing scale. The BMI was calculated and compared with BMI classification of World Health Organization. Statistical analysis: Descriptive statistical measures such as percentage distribution, mean, and standard deviations were used for variables. Chi-squared test of significance was used to predict the association between BMI and food intake. Results: The percent adequacy of food intake presented a deficit in the intake of green leafy vegetables (−31.05%), fruits ([FIGURE DASH]46.34%), milk and milk products (−21.44%). BMI revealed that a higher percentage (45.16%) of adolescent girls were under weight. Conclusion: There was no significant association (χ 2 = 0.46, P = 0.99) between BMI and food intake.