Adolescent Nutritional Patterns and Health Behaviors in Romania: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nutrition Science
• Adolescent Health

Background:

• Adolescence is a critical developmental period influencing lifelong dietary habits and health.
• Understanding socio-demographic and psychological factors is key to addressing adolescent nutrition.
• Dietary behaviors established during youth have long-term health implications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the associations between socio-demographic factors, psychological elements, and dietary behaviors in Romanian school-aged children and adolescents.
• To identify specific nutritional patterns and health-related behaviors across different age groups.
• To explore the role of hydration and psychological well-being in adolescent dietary choices.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 662 participants aged 6-18 years from primary, middle, and high schools.
• Utilized a structured, self-administered questionnaire covering nutritional intake, meal patterns, hydration, physical activity, screen time, and psychological factors.
• Calculated Body Mass Index (BMI) based on self-reported height and weight.

Main Results:

• Significant gender differences observed in BMI and weight-loss behaviors; females were more likely to be underweight, males overweight.
• Dietary patterns varied by age: high schoolers consumed fewer vegetables, primary schoolers more carbonated drinks, and teenagers preferred structured meals.
• Adequate hydration (≥3L water daily) was linked to healthier eating patterns, while fatigue and stress correlated with unhealthy choices.

Conclusions:

• Findings highlight gender and age-specific nutritional challenges in adolescents.
• Psychological factors like stress and fatigue significantly impact dietary choices.
• Interventions should focus on targeted nutritional education, school programs, and family support to enhance adolescent health behaviors.