Characterization of the nutritional status of university students, Medellín-Colombia, 2022.

Introduction: The rising prevalence of overweight and non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) represents a serious public health problem for young people in countries across the Americas.

Objective: To analyze the nutritional status of students at a higher education institution in Medellín, Colombia, 2022.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 352 students. Sociodemographic information, nutritional status, and lifestyle habits were collected through surveys. Validated instruments were used to measure nutritional indicators. Data analysis included frequency distributions, summary measures, and statistical tests applied based on the assumption of normality.

Results: 31.82% of students were overweight, 22.16% had a high body fat percentage, and 19.32% were at cardiovascular risk. A statistical association was observed between BMI and both academic programs and age. While the consumption of natural foods was common, there was also a high intake of ultra-processed foods. Additionally, 62.78% of students engaged in adequate physical activity, yet 95.17% displayed sedentary behavior, and 39.77% had low handgrip strength. A potential positive correlation was identified between BMI, waist circumference, body fat percentage, and handgrip strength.

Discussion: The study revealed a concerning nutritional profile among university students, marked by overweight, increased adiposity, and sedentary behavior, aligning with findings from similar studies conducted in this population across various regions. Although the frequent consumption of natural foods and engagement in adequate physical activity are positive aspects, they contrast with the high intake of ultra-processed foods and prevalent sedentary lifestyles-patterns consistent with research in Latin America.

Conclusion: The university environment often increases students' risk of metabolic disorders, high consumption of ultra-processed foods, excess adiposity, and low physical activity levels, contributing to a nutritional profile that calls for attention and implementing preventive educational strategies.