Physical activity level and food intake habits of university students from 3 to 5 semester in the health area

Objective The aim of this work is to assess the physical activity level and nutrition habits of university students from the health area, as they will be future disseminators of such information to the community. Methods This was a cross-sectional study with 281 students from the health area from the Universidade de Brasilia. Anthropometric variables were evaluated, as well as food habits and physical activity level. Results A high level of inactivity was observed among the students, except for those of Physical Education who perform physical activities in their school. Low physical activity level was observed among students of low socioeconomic level. Nutrition was considered inadequate for the majority of the students (79.7%). The lowest levels regarding an adequate nutrition were observed for the group of milk derivatives (23.0%), fruits and vegetables (24.9%) and complex carbohydrates (25.9%). A high percentage of inadequate consumption of soft drinks and sweets (74.0%) was observed. The regression analysis indicated that the gender variable was significantly associated with body mass index, where men presented a higher body mass index than women (P < 0,001). Conclusion Although the sample was formed by health field students, who, at first, have a better knowledge of healthy lifestyle practices, a high level of inactivity and inadequate eating habits was observed among them. It is necessary to rethink the relationship between theoretical knowledge and real changes in lifestyle in order to promote health.