Association Between Body Mass Index and Dietary Habits and Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Female Adolescent Students in Holy Makkah

Abstract

Introduction: Nutritional needs during adolescence are increased because of the increased growth rate and changes in body composition associated with puberty. Eating habits vary widely between individual adolescents. Poor eating habits formed during adolescence can lead to obesity and diet-related diseases in later years. The aim of the study was to determine the socio-demographic factors, dietary habits and mean physical characteristics of the subjects associated with BMI. Subjects and methods: A descriptive approach, cross-sectional design was used to assess the dietary intake of adolescent girls with respect to healthy diets. 100 female students with age range of 16-19 years were included in the study. The study questionnaires was used to collect data about Socio-demographic factor, dietary habits,. Anthropometric measurements were done including weight, height, body mass index (BMI) and fat percent. Data analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package of the Social Science (SPSS) version 20. Result and discussion: These results indicated that there is a statistical significant association between BMI and vitamin/mineral supplementation (P< 0.05), 28% who were consuming them. In addition the findings showed that 41% of the female students who skipped breakfast meal had normal BMI. Our study revealed that there is no statistically significant relationship between BMI and physical exercise (P> 0.05) in 37% of adolescent girls who practiced physical exercise more than one time weekly. Also the data revealed that there is no statistically significant relationship (P>0.05) between BMI and breakfast, main meals and snacking. Conclusion: Our results show that almost half of the subjects have normal BMI. But there is not statistical significance relationship between BMI and socio-demographic characteristics, and dietary habits except for vitamin and mineral supplementation. Implementing educational programs which regarding the weight management and maintains adequate nutrient. To improve the dietary pattern and the nutritional status of female adolescents is recommended.