The Association between Dietary Habits and Chronic Disease Risk among Adolescent Populations

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between diet and risk of chronic disease in adolescents. Methodology: The study was a cross-sectional survey of 300 adolescents between 12 and 18 years of age. Adolescents reported their diet through a validated food frequency questionnaire and health outcomes including body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose and blood cholesterol. Correlation and regression analyses were used for statistical evaluation. Findings: The study found 42% of adolescents reported consuming fast food three or more days a week, with only 28% consuming adequate amounts of fruit and vegetables. Frequent high sugar food intake was correlated with higher BMI (r = 0.46, p < 0.01) and higher levels of fasting glucose (mean = 108 ± 12 mg/dL). Students with healthier dietary habits had lower cholesterol levels (mean = 165 ± 18 mg/dL). Conclusion: Bad dietary patterns are significantly linked to higher risk of developing chronic diseases in adolescents, suggesting the importance of interventions.