Publication: Assessment of Dietary Habits in Final Year Medical Students at a Public University Faculty of Medicine in Turkey During COVID-19
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Date
2024-06-01
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Abstract
Introduction: Optimal health depends on the intricate interplay of genetics, environment, and nutrition, encompassing aspects of physical, mental, and social well-being. This study rigorously assesses the dietary habits of final-year medical students during their internship, with a specific focus on understanding the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. The overarching goal is to advocate for and contribute to the fostering of healthier lifestyles among medical students.
Materials/Methods: This descriptive research aimed to survey the entire cohort comprising 200 final-year medical students enrolled in the Faculty of Medicine at a public university. Among them, 125 participants actively participated in the online dietary survey conducted from September to October 2020.
Results: During their internship, most participants had two (35.2%) or three (48.8%) daily meals, often skipping breakfast (40.0%) due to lack of appetite or opportunities. Approximately 77% maintained underweight or normal weight. The majority (95.2%) lacked a specific dietary pattern. Protein and carbohydrates were favored (75.3% for females, 96.2% for males), with more females choosing fruits and vegetables.
Conclusions: This study underscores the imperative for an all-encompassing nutrition education framework within medical student curricula. It unveils discernible variations in dietary practices, encompassing the consumption of nuts, sugary foods, energy drinks, and tea/coffee, stratified by gender and body mass index. Furthermore, the investigation establishes that exam preparation significantly influences dietary habits. Notably, independent living emerges as a pivotal factor shaping preferences for sugary foods.
Keywords: Intern, Medical School, Nutrition, Student
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Sağlık Bilimleri, Health Sciences, Klinik Tıp (MED), Clinical Medicine (MED), Intern, Medical School, Nutrition, Student
Citation
Jamil S. D., Davun S., Yılmaz A., Akalın D., Maşta M. M., Özgüç S., Hıdıroğlu S., Karavuş M., "Assessment of Dietary Habits in Final Year Medical Students at a Public University Faculty of Medicine in Turkey During COVID-19 ", Progress in health sciences, cilt.14, sa.1, ss.30-41, 2024