Dietary Habits, Body Mass Index, and Health-Related Quality of Life among Young Females in North India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Young females represent a nutritionally vulnerable group due to rapidly changing lifestyles, increased academic pressures, and heightened exposure to social and digital influences. This study examined the relationship between dietary habits, Body Mass Index (BMI), and Quality of Life (QoL) among young females aged 18–25 years residing in Western Uttar Pradesh and Delhi NCR. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 120 participants recruited through convenience sampling from colleges, universities, and residential areas. Data were collected using a structured online questionnaire comprising a Short Food Frequency Questionnaire (SFFQ), self-reported anthropometric measurements, and the WHOQOL-BREF instrument. Additional variables included sociodemographic details, social media exposure, and peer influence on dietary choices. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation were used for analysis. Findings indicated that frequent fastfood consumption was significantly associated with higher BMI (p < 0.05), while regular fruit and vegetable intake demonstrated a positive correlation with overall QoL scores. Urban participants reported higher consumption of processed and fast foods and exhibited lower psychological QoL compared with semi-urban participants. Higher BMI was negatively correlated with psychological well-being, highlighting body image concerns and stress as contributing factors. Results reflect an emerging triple burden among young females: increasing overweight/obesity, risk of micronutrient deficiencies, and psychosocial pressures influencing food choices. The study underscores the need for targeted nutrition education, improved food environments near educational institutions, and interventions addressing digital media influence to promote healthier lifestyles and enhance QoL.

dietary habits, Body Mass Index

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