The Nutritional Status of Indian University Students: Regional Disparities and Health Consequences of Inadequate Diets

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the nutritional health status of university students across India’s four regions-North, South, East, and West- revealing alarming trends in dietary behavior and health risks. Article no. Students in the North and West exhibit a 65% higher intake of processed and fast foods, whereas those in the East and South tend to maintain more traditional diets. However, poor nutrition is widespread: 35% of students are malnourished, and 42% fail to meet basic nutritional requirements. Among female students, 60% are anemic, and 70% of all students have vitamin D deficiency. Skipping breakfast is reported by every 6 in 10 students, while 75% consume fast food more than 3 times a week, and only 1 in 4 students meets the WHO’s daily intake recommendation of fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, 55% of students engage in physical inactivity, which leads to increased fatigue, stress, and subpar academic results. 55% of students engage in physical inactivity, which leads to increased fatigue, stress, and subpar academic results. which leads to increased fatigue, stress, and subpar academic results. The findings call for immediate, region-sensitive education, access to healthy food, and lifestyle programs to improve the long-term health and academic performance of India’s university population. The study highlights severe regional disparities in student nutrition, with high rates of malnutrition and deficiencies. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted health and nutrition interventions.”