Influence of Dietary Habits and Lifestyle Practices on the Health and Well-Being of University Students: A Survey Investigation

Abstract

Background

Modern lifestyle trends, characterized by sedentary behaviours and poor dietary choices, have a negative impact on the physical and mental health of university students at graduation and post-graduation levels. This study aims to investigate the influence of outdoor activities, dietary habits, psychological wellbeing, physical activities, sleep patterns, and bad habits on the lifestyle of university students in India, with a focus on identifying significant differences in these habits among students and exploring the potential benefits of yoga and naturopathy in improving their overall health.

Methods

An online, survey study was conducted among 710 university students using a self-administered Google Form questionnaire. Responses were received from 600 students across 18 Indian universities. After excluding 94 participants, 506 responses were evaluated for the study.

Results

Limited participation in outdoor activities was observed, and students showed a lack of interest in physical activities such as yoga and exercise. Dietary habits showed moderate improvement due to growing awareness of healthy diets, although stress led some to overeat. High stress levels negatively impacted psychological health. Sleep patterns were disturbed, likely due to high screen time. Low involvement in alcohol consumption and smoking was reported.

Conclusion

Students are aware of the harmful impact of poor dietary habits, alcohol consumption, and smoking on physical health. However, many are excessively worried about maintaining their physical fitness, leading some to overeat under stress. Additionally, students show less interest in practicing yoga and exercise, and high screen time and unbalanced sleep patterns are prevalent. Therefore, incorporating yoga and naturopathy into one’s lifestyle can improve physical and mental health by mitigating stress and promoting overall well-being.

INTRODUCTION

In today’s generation, time management and productive outcomes are paramount; as a result, university students often manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously, which can indirectly deteriorate crucial aspects of their health, such as dietary habits and lifestyle choices [1]. Proper health care is essential for everyone, including university, as it directly affects their physical, mental, psychological, emotional, and social well-being, ultimately impacting their academic performance and overall quality of life [2].

To maintain health and prevent disease, consuming a balanced diet rich in healthy and nutrition foods is crucial. These foods provide essential micro and macronutrients necessary for the growth, development, and overall maintenance of the body foods [3]. University students often juggle academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, events, fests, and social commitments, leading to unhealthy dietary habits [4]. Irregular meal patterns become common due to the easy availability of fast food and a shortage of time. These poor dietary choices can result in deficiencies in essential nutrients, leading to weak immunity, lack of concentration, decreased energy levels and various mental health issues or psychiatric co-morbidities [5].

Further, factors such as physical activity, sleep patterns, mental health, emotional health, and stress levels play vital roles in shaping health [6]. To maintain physical and mental health, performing yoga daily is essential [7]. However, many students struggle to find time for physical health due to high academic workload and pressure, leading to a sedentary and unhealthy lifestyle. Irregular sleep pattern and high stress levels further negatively affect overall well-being, potentially causing health like obesity [1,2,8].

University life brings various changes and challenges, both academically and personally, which directly influence student’s dietary habits and lifestyles [9]. With newfound freedom, students become responsible for their food choices and meal planning, often consumption oily, deep-fried food, fast food, packaged snacks, and sugary drinks [10]. These unhealthy food preferences can lead to obesity, nutritional deficiencies, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Disturbed eating schedules, skipping meals, and frequently partying contribute to poor dietary habits [11,12].

Naturopathy is a nature cure system, offers constructive principles for changing dietary habits and improving lifestyle choices. Naturopathic treatments focus on a holistic approach, addressing the root cause of diseases rather than merely treating the symptoms. Students can enhance their overall well- being and academic performance by incorporating naturopathy therapies such as whole food nutrition, stress reduction techniques, and yoga [13,14].

This research paper aims to investigates how dietary habits and lifestyle practices affect university students and explores the role of yoga and naturopathy in improving their quality of life.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An online, cross-sectional survey was adopted using a self-administered Google Form questionnaire, which was shared with 710 different university students of India through email to which 600 university students responded from 18 Indian universities including North and South India. A total of 94 participants were excluded from the survey due to various reasons. Fifteen participants were excluded due to pre-existing physical or mental health conditions, while 20 were excluded for participating in similar studies within the past six months. Additionally, 18 participants were excluded due to a history of substance abuse or addiction, and 21 were excluded for currently taking medication that may have influenced their lifestyle habits. Pregnancy or breastfeeding led to the exclusion of 9 participants, and 11 were excluded due to issues with informed consent or limited English proficiency as the Google Form was in English. The ethical approval was taken from the ethics committee of Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, Gurugram, Haryana, India, prior to the start of the survey (Ref. No. SGTU/FNYS/IEC/2024-5). The survey consisted of a wide range of questions related to outdoor activities, dietary habits, psychological wellbeing, physical activity, sleep patterns, and bad habits to rule out the relationship between these components and their effect on the university students. Inclusion criteria were graduate, postgraduate and doctorate students, while exclusion criteria included students below the graduate level. The details of the participants based on inclusion and exclusion are presented in Fig. 1.

Fig. 1.

Flowchart of participants with inclusion and exclusion profile.

1. Sample characteristics

This survey study collected responses from 506 students, including 28.85% males and 71.15% females. The participants were enrolled in 30 different courses, including Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences (BNYS) (21.34%), Bachelor of science (B.Sc.) Honors in Agriculture (4.35%), Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) (5.14%), Bachelor of Commerce (B. Com.) (5.93%), Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) (0.79%), Master of Science in Clinical Psychology (MSc Clinical Psychology) (8.89%), Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) (9.88%), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (10.47%), Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in Special Education (5.34%), General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM Nursing) (0.99%), Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) (2.57%), B.Sc. Applied Statistics and Data Science (3.16%), B.Sc. Honours in Forensic Science (2.77%), Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics (0.79%), Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) (2.96%), B.Sc. in Perfusion Technology (1.19%), B.Sc. in Cardiac Care Technology (1.58%), Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Honors in Hindi (2.37%), M.Sc. in Medical Microbiology (4.55%), Master of Optometry (M. Optom.) (0.99%), Post-Graduation in Clinical Yoga (1.19%), M.Sc. in Agriculture Genetics and Plant Breeding (0.20%), Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) (0.59%), M.Sc. in Neuroscience (0.20%), M. Tech in Biotechnology (0.20%), B.Sc. in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (0.40%), B.Sc. in Anaesthesia and Operation Theatre Technology (0.40%), B.A. Honours in Political Science (0.20%), B.Sc. in Clinical Psychology (0.20%), and B.Sc. in non-medical (0.40%). Among the participants, 44% were first-year students, 32% were second-year students, 11% were third-year students, and 13% were fourth-year students. Geographically, 19% of the students reported being from Delhi, 35% from Haryana, 9% from Uttar Pradesh, 6% from Tamil Nadu, 2% from Karnataka, 3% from Telangana, 6% from Rajasthan, 4% from Bhopal, 6% from Himachal Pradesh, 2% from Andhra Pradesh, 3% from Kerala, and 2% from Manipur. The majority of students, 63% lived with their families, while 37% lived away from their families. Characteristics of the participant’s data are mentioned in Table 1.

Table 1.

Characteristic of the participant’s data

Series No.	Characteristics	Value*
1	Age	20.80 ± 2.63
2	Sex
	Male	146 (28.85)
	Female	360 (71.15)
3	Course
	Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences	108 (21.34)
	B.Sc. Honors in Agriculture	22 (4.35)
	Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery	26 (5.14)
	Bachelor of Commerce Program	30 (5.93)
	Bachelor of Business Administration	4 (0.79)
	Master of Science in Clinical Psychology	45 (8.89)
	Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery	50 (9.88)
	Bachelor of Science in Nursing	53 (10.47)
	B.Ed. in Special Education (Id)	27 (5.34)
	General Nursing and Midwifery	5 (0.99)
	Bachelor of Physiotherapy	13 (2.57)
	B.Sc. Applied Statistics and Data Science	16 (3.16)
	B.Sc. Honours in Forensic Science	14 (2.77)
	M.Sc. in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics	4 (0.79)
	Bachelor of Dental Surgery	15 (2.96)
	B.Sc. in Perfusion Technology	6 (1.19)
	B.Sc. in Cardiac Care Technology	8 (1.58)
	B.A. Honors in Hindi	12 (2.37)
	M.Sc. in Medical Microbiology	23 (4.55)
	Master of Optometry	5 (0.99)
	Post-Graduation in Clinical Yoga	6 (1.19)
	M.Sc. in Agriculture Genetics and Plant Breeding	1 (0.20)
	Bachelor of Technology	3 (0.59)
	M.Sc. in Neuroscience	1 (0.20)
	M. Tech in Biotechnology	1 (0.20)
	B.Sc. in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology	2 (0.40)
	B.Sc. in Anaesthesia and Operation Theatre Technology	2 (0.40)
	B.A. Honours in Political Science	1 (0.20)
	B.Sc. in Clinical Psychology	1 (0.20)
	B.Sc. in non-medical	2 (0.40)
3	Year of course	2.00 ± 1.03
	First year	224 (44.27)
	Second year	163 (32.21)
	Third year	57 (11.26)
	Fourth year	62 (12.25)
4	States
	Delhi	99 (19.57)
	Haryana	180 (35.57)
	Uttar Pradesh	48 (9.49)
	Tamil Nadu	33 (6.52)
	Karnataka	10 (1.98)
	Telangana	18 (3.56)
	Rajasthan	29 (5.73)
	Bhopal	23 (4.55)
	Himachal Pradesh	30 (5.93)
	Andhra Pradesh	10 (1.98)
	Kerala	15 (2.96)
	Manipur	11 (2.17)
5	During the period of course, do you live
	With your family	317 (62.65)
	Away from your family	189 (37.35)

*Values are presented as mean±standard deviation or n (%).

B.Sc.: Bachelor of Science, B.Ed.: Bachelor of Education, Id: Intellectual Disability, M.Sc.: Master of Sciences, B.A.: Bachelor of Arts, M.: Master.

2. Students wellbeing analysis

1) Outdoor activities

Most respondents (49%) do not participate in theatre or cultural activities, while 41% engage 1-3 times a month. A smaller proportion engages more frequently: 6% reported 1-2 times a week, 2% reported 3-4 times a week, 1% reported 5-6 times a week, and another 1% reported daily participation. For disco/night club parties, 83% of respondents never attend it, 14% go 1-3 times a month, 2% attend 1-2 times a week, 0.79% go 3-4 times a week, 0.19% attend 5-6 times a week, and 0% attend daily. Regarding cinema enjoyment, 39% of respondents never go, while half (50%) attend 1-3 times a month. Additionally, 8% attend 1-2 times a week, 1% attends 3-4 or 5-6 times a week, and 0.18% attends daily. Sports participation shows that 32% of respondents never play, 34% play 1-3 times a month, 18.5% play 1-2 times a week, 4% play 3-4 times a week, 3% play 5-6 times a week, and 8% play daily. Responses to outdoor activities can be found in Table 2.

Table 2.

Combined table of outdoor activities, dietary habits

2) Dietary habits

According to the survey data, half of the students (51%) reported consuming breakfast at home. In contrast, 18% have breakfast at the university mess, 26% typically skip breakfast, and 4% eat at the university canteen. For lunch, a significant portion of respondents (58%) indicated that they bring prepared meals from home. Meanwhile, 22% dine at the university mess, 15% at the university canteen, and 3% usually do not consume lunch. Dinner habits reveal that most respondents (71%) have dinner at home. Additionally, 21% have dinner at the university mess, 4% at the university canteen, and 3% typically skip dinner. Table 2 details the responses to the dietary habits.

3) Food choices

• Fresh fruits: Only 2.17% of students reported never consuming fresh fruits. Consumption frequencies were as follows: 21.5% consume fruits 1-3 times a month, 20.5% 1-2 times a week, 17% 3-4 times a week, 10% 5-6 times a week, 25% daily, and 3.3% more than once a day.

• Raw vegetables: 22% reported never consuming raw vegetables. Others reported 25% 1-3 times a month, 19% 1-2 times a week, 13.4% 3-4 times a week, 7% 5-6 times a week, 11% daily, and 2% more than once a day.

• Cooked vegetables: Only 2% reported never eating cooked vegetables. Consumption frequencies were 8% 1-3 times a month, 9% 1-2 times a week, 6% 3-4 times a week, 8% 5-6 times a week, 51% daily, and 16% more than once a day.

• Cakes and ice creams: 10% of respondents reported never consuming cakes and ice creams. More than half (51%) consume them 1-3 times a month, 25% 1-2 times a week, 9% 3-4 times a week, 3% 5-6 times a week, and 1% daily or more than once a day.

• Pasta: 25% reported never consuming pasta. More than half (53%) consume it 1-3 times a month, 15% 1-2 times a week, 1.5% 3-4 times a week, 4% 5-6 times a week, 0.7% daily, and 0.39% more than once a day.

• Rice: Only 4% reported never consuming rice. The rest reported 21% 1-3 times a month, 29% 1-2 times a week, 15% 3-4 times a week, 6% 5-6 times a week, 18% daily, and 7% more than once a day.

• Meat and poultry: A majority (67%) reported never consuming meat and poultry. Others reported 17% 1-3 times a month, 9% 1-2 times a week, 3.5% 3-4 times a week, 2.3% 5-6 times a week, 1% daily, and 0.19% more than once a day.

• Fish: A large majority (82%) reported never consuming fish. The remaining reported 12% 1-3 times a month, 3% 1-2 times a week, 0.79% 3-4 or 5-6 times a week, 0.19% daily, and 0.59% more than once a day.

• Dairy: 11% reported never consuming dairy. The rest reported 15% 1-3 times a month, 13% 1-2 times a week, 6.5% 3-4 or 5-6 times a week, 35% daily, and 13% more than once a day.

• Eggs: More than half (54%) reported never consuming eggs. Others reported 17% 1-3 times a month, 12% 1-2 times a week, 6.3% 3-4 times a week, 3.5% 5-6 times a week, 5.1% daily, and 1.5% more than once a day.

• Chips: 14% reported never consuming chips. The rest reported 39% 1-3 times a month, 24.5% 1-2 times a week, 10% 3-4 times a week, 6.5% 5-6 times a week, 4% daily, and 2% more than once a day.

• Breads: 11% reported never consuming bread. The remaining reported 43% 1-3 times a month, 23% 1-2 times a week, 9% 3-4 times a week, 7.3% 5-6 times a week, 5% daily, and 1% more than once a day.

• Cereals/pulses: 6% reported never consuming cereals/pulses. Others reported 15% 1-3 times a month, 21% 1-2 times a week, 15% 3-4 times a week, 12% 5-6 times a week, 23% daily, and 8% more than once a day.

• Pizza: 23% reported never consuming pizza. More than half (57%) consume it 1-3 times a month, 12% 1-2 times a week, 3.3% 3-4 times a week, 3% 5-6 times a week, and 0.5% daily or more than once a day.

• Snacks: 9% reported never consuming snacks. The rest reported 37% 1-3 times a month, 26% 1-2 times a week, 10% 3-4 times a week, 5% 5-6 times a week, 9% daily, and 4% more than once a day.

• Packaged/ready foods: 21.7% reported never consuming packaged/ready foods. The rest reported 38.7% 1-3 times a month, 21% 1-2 times a week, 7.7% 3-4 times a week, 5% 5-6 times a week, 3.7% daily, and 2% more than once a day.

• Fruit juice: 8% reported never consuming fruit juice. The rest reported 33% 1-3 times a month, 26.6% 1-2 times a week, 12.6% 3-4 times a week, 8% 5-6 times a week, 9% daily, and 2.3% more than once a day.

• Beer/wine: A majority (85.5%) reported never consuming beer/wine. The rest reported 10.4% 1-3 times a month, 1.3% 1-2 times a week, 0.59% 3-4 times a week, 0.79% 5-6 times a week, and 0.59% daily or more than once a day.

• Soft/fizzy drinks: 30% reported never consuming soft/fizzy drinks. Others reported 41% 1-3 times a month, 17% 1-2 times a month, 5.1% 3-4 times a month, 2.5% 5-6 times a week, 3% daily, and 0.79% more than once a day.

• Coffee/tea: 14% reported never consuming coffee/tea. The rest reported 21% 1-3 times a month, 15% 1-2 times a week, 8% 3-4 times a week, 7% 5-6 times a week, 22% daily, and 13% more than once a day.

• Sauces (mayonnaise/ketchup): 23% reported never consuming sauces. The remaining reported 40.5% 1-3 times a month, 16% 1-2 times a week, 8.3% 3-4 times a week, 4.3% 5-6 times a week, 5% daily, and 2% more than once a day. The outcomes of food choices are documented in Table 3.

Table 3.

Food choices

Q) How often in the last year have you consumed the following foods during the period of course?
Series No.	Item	Fresh fruits	Raw vegetables	Cooked vegetables	Cakes and ice creams	Pasta	Rice	Meat and poultry	Fish	Dairy	Eggs	Chips	Breads	Cereals/pulses	Pizza	Snacks	Packaged/ready foods	Fruit juice	Beer/wine	Soft/fizzy drinks	Coffee/tea	Sauces (mayonnaise/ketchup etc.)
1	Never	11 (2.17)	112 (22)	11 (2)	50 (10)	126 (25)	21 (4)	338 (67)	418 (82)	55 (11)	272 (54)	73 (14)	57 (11)	32 (6)	118 (23)	46 (9)	110 (22)	41 (8)	433 (86)	153 (30)	70 (14)	118 (23)
2	1-3 Times a month	109 (21.50)	126 (25)	40 (8)	257 (51)	270 (53)	105 (21)	86 (17)	61 (12)	76 (15)	88 (17)	196 (39)	220 (43)	74 (15)	287 (57)	186 (37)	196 (39)	168 (33)	53 (10)	207 (41)	107 (21)	205 (41)
3	1-2 Times a week	104 (20.50)	95 (19)	44 (9)	129 (25)	77 (15)	148 (29)	46 (9)	15 (3)	65 (13)	62 (12)	124 (24.50)	115 (23)	107 (21)	64 (12)	135 (26)	107 (21)	135 (27)	7 (1)	86 (17)	75 (15)	82 (16)
4	3-4 Times a week	87 (17)	68 (13.40)	33 (6)	44 (9)	8 (1.50)	75 (15)	18 (3.50)	4 (0.79)	33 (6.50)	32 (6.30)	51 (10)	46 (9)	76 (15)	17 (3.30)	51 (10.0)	39 (7.70)	64 (12.60)	3 (0.59)	26 (5.10)	42 (8.0)	42 (8.30)
5	5-6 Times a week	51 (10)	36 (7)	39 (8)	15 (3)	19 (4)	32 (6)	12 (2.30)	4 (0.79)	33 (6.50)	18 (3.50)	33 (6.50)	37 (7.30)	60 (12)	14 (3)	24 (5)	26 (5)	40 (8)	4 (1)	13 (3)	35 (7)	22 (4)
6	Everyday	127 (25)	58 (11)	258 (51)	5 (1)	4 (0.70)	91 (18)	5 (1)	1 (0.19)	176 (35)	26 (5.10)	19 (4)	24 (5)	115 (23)	3 (0.50)	45 (9.0)	19 (3.70)	46 (9.0)	3 (0.59)	17 (3.0)	110 (22.0)	26 (5.0)
7	More than once a day	17 (3.30)	11 (2)	81 (16)	6 (1)	2 (0.39)	34 (7)	1 (0.19)	3 (0.59)	68 (13)	8 (1.50)	10 (2)	7 (1)	42 (8)	3 (0.50)	19 (4.0)	9 (2.0)	12 (2.30)	3 (0.59)	4 (0.79)	67 (13.0)	11 (2.0)

*Values are presented as number (%).

3. Psychological changes

More than half of the students (51%) indicated significant changes in their eating habits since starting university, with 37% noting moderate changes and 8% experiencing complete alterations; only 4% reported no change. For eating under stress, 17% of respondents reported doing so frequently, 45% occasionally, and 37% not at all. Concerns about physical appearance and body size were prevalent, with 44% expressing significant concern, 43% moderate concern, and 13% reporting no concern. Regarding physical activity, 44% of students reported being active on on-campus or at home, 51% moderately active and 4.5% not active at all. Dieting behaviours varied: 18% attempted dieting but were not happy with the outcome, 12% were highly delighted with their dieting efforts, 31% dieted occasionally, and 38% never dieted. Reasons for dieting included wanting to become strong and healthy (43%), maintaining weight (35%), looking good in clothes (7.5%), and achieving a slim and confident appearance (14%). In self-perception of weight, 13% of respondents considered they underweight, 63% had a normal weight perception, 21% felt overweight, and 2.5% considered themselves obese. The details of the psychological changes are mentioned in this Table 4.

Table 4.

Psychological changes

Series No.	Q) Have your eating habits changed since you started attending university?			Q) Do you eat more when feeling stressed?			Q) Are you concerned about your body size and physical appearance?			Q) Do you walk around campus/or at home?			Q) Have you ever tried dieting?			Q) What do you think is the possible reason behind dieting?			Q) Would you say you are?
	Items	Value*		Items	Value*		Items	Value*		Items	Value*		Items	Value*		Items	Value*		Items	Value*
1	Yes, a lot	261 (51)		Yes, a lot	89 (17)		Yes, a lot	222 (44)		Yes, a lot	225 (44)		Yes, but did not succeed	92 (18)		To be strong and healthy	220 (43)		Underweight	65 (13)
2	Yes, but not much/sometimes	188 (37)		Yes, but not much/sometimes	231 (45)		Yes, but not much/sometimes	216 (43)		Yes, but not much/sometimes	258 (51)		Yes, and highly satisfied	61 (12)		To maintain my weight	178 (35)		Normal weight	323 (63)
3	Completely	39 (8)		Completely	186 (37)		Completely	68 (13)		Completely	23 (4.50)		I do when I feel like	158 (31)		To look beautiful in clothes	38 (7.50)		Overweight	105 (21)
4	No, not at all	18 (4)		No, not at all	-		No, not at all	-		No, not at all	-		Never	195 (38)		To be slim/thin and confident	70 (14)		Obese	13 (2.50)

*Values are presented as number (%).

4. Physical activity (yoga and exercise)

The data indicates that 24% of respondents engage in exercise or workout regularly, 45% do so sometimes, 24% rarely, and 7% never exercise. Regarding yoga practice, only 12% reported regular practice, 36% sometimes, 20% rarely, and 31% not at all. Among those who practice yoga, 41% strongly feel positive changes, 28% feel some benefit, 7% do not perceive any change, and 24% have never tried yoga. The responses to physical activity are mentioned in Table 5.

Table 5.

Combined table of physical health (exercise and yoga), sleep habits and bad habits

5. Sleep habits

In the study, 66% of respondents reported a daily screen time of 4-5 hours, 29% reported 5-9 hours, and 5% reported more than 9 hours. Sleep quality was self-reported as good and relaxed by 74% of respondents, while 26% reported poor and disturbed sleep. For sleep duration, 54% of respondents reported sleeping 7-8 hours a day, 38% slept less than 7 hours, 7% slept 3-4 hours, and 1% slept less than 3 hours. Bedtime habits showed that 37% went to bed between 10-11 pm, 53% between 11 pm-12 am, 6% between 12-1 am, and 3% between 1-3 am. Consistency in bedtime was reported as always by 36%, sometimes by 47%, rarely by 14%, and never by 3%. Daytime napping habits indicated that 9% always took a nap, 37% sometimes, 34% rarely, and 19% never. Energy levels throughout the day, on a scale from 1 to 5 (1 being energetic and 5 being exhausted), were reported as follows: 12% felt energetic (1), 17% moderately active (2), 59% average (3), 9% tired (4), and 2% exhausted (5). Responses of sleep habits are documented in Table 5.

6. Bad habits

In the study, 1% of respondents reported drinking alcohol regularly, 3% sometimes and 9% occasionally, while the majority 87% reported not drinking at all. Among those who drank, 3% did so to reduce stress, 1% due to availability, boredom, or habit, 8% for personal pleasure, and 87% did not drink at all. For alcohol accessibility, 64% of respondents believed it was easily accessible, while 36% disagreed. Attempts to quit alcohol were reported by 6% who tried once but restarted, 2% who tried twice but restarted, 1% who tried many times but could not stop, and 91% reported not drinking. In terms of smoking, 3% of respondents smoked cigarettes or hookah regularly or sometimes, 4% occasionally, and 90% never. Daily smoking was reported by 1%, smoking once in 2-4 days by 3%, 91% did not smoke at all, and 5% smoked in specific situations such as parties, with friends, or when stressed. The motivations for smoking included stress reduction (3%), availability and boredom (1%), habit (2%), personal pleasure (4%), and 90% did not smoke. Attempts to quit smoking were reported by 5% who tried once but restarted, 3% who tried twice but restarted, 1% who tried many times but could not stop, and 91% reported not smoking. Table 5 provides information on bad habits.

7. Sex-based subgroup analysis

Chi-square tests revealed significant differences in lifestyle habits and health parameters between male and female university students. Specifically, males were more likely to engage in physical activity (χ² = 4.32, p = 0.038), while females reported better dietary habits (χ² = 3.51, p = 0.061). The details of the test are given in Table 6.

Table 6.

Sex-based subgroup analysis

Parameter	Male* (n = 146)	Female* (n = 360)	χ2	p-value
Outdoor activities	43 (29.5)	90 (25.0)	1.23	0.267
Dietary habits	60 (41.1)	180 (50.0)	3.51	0.061
Psychological-wellbeing	80 (54.8)	220 (61.1)	1.83	0.176
Physical activity	70 (47.9)	140 (38.9)	4.32	0.038
Sleep habits	90 (61.6)	200 (55.6)	1.42	0.233
Bad habits	20 (13.7)	40 (11.1)	0.83	0.363

*: %.

8. Correlation analysis: relationships between lifestyle habits and health parameters

The correlation analysis suggests that students who engage in healthy lifestyle habits (outdoor activities, dietary habits, and physical activity) tend to have better psychological wellbeing, sleep habits, and overall health outcomes. Conversely, students who engage in bad habits tend to have poorer health outcomes. Summarization of which is given in Table 7.

Table 7.

Correlation analysis: relationships between lifestyle habits and health parameters

Variables	Outdoor activities	Dietary habits	Psychological well being	Physical activity	Sleep habits	Bad habits
Outdoor activities	1.00	0.35*	0.28*	0.42**	0.25*	–0.18*
Dietary habits	0.35*	1.00	0.40**	0.35*	0.30*	–0.22*
Psychological well being	0.28*	0.40**	1.00	0.45**	0.50**	–0.30**
Physical activities	0.42**	0.35*	0.45**	1.00	0.40**	–0.25*
Sleep habits	0.25*	0.30*	0.50**	0.40**	1.00	–0.20*
Bad habits	–0.18*	–0.22*	–0.30**	–0.25*	–0.20*	1.00

p-value < 0.05 (*) indicates significance, while < 0.01 (**) denotes high significance. The correlation coefficient (r) ranges from –1 to 1, indicating relationship strength and direction. The p-value (0 to 1) reflects the probability of results occurring by chance. A negative (–) sign indicates a negative correlation, a positive (+) sign a positive correlation, and r = 1.00 represents a perfect correlation.

RESULTS

The present analysis underscores the concerning lifestyle trends of university students, characterized by limited participation in extracurricular activities, negligence of physical exercise and physical health, poor dietary habits, and high screen time. These factors contribute to an unbalanced lifestyle and increased stress levels. Research-based evidence highlights the importance of promoting balanced leisure activities, regular physical exercise, nutritious dietary habits, and adequate sleep, as these are critical for enhancing physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Universities must proactively create supportive environments that encourage healthy lifestyle choices. Including providing access to nutritious food options, fostering outdoor recreational activities, promoting awareness about the health implications of skipping meals, especially breakfast and integrating compulsory yoga sessions into undergraduate and postgraduate courses can significantly contribute to overall health of the students.

DISCUSSION

The data indicated that many students do not frequently participate in extracurricular activities such as theatre, cultural events, sports, or other leisure activities. This lack of engagement suggests an unbalanced lifestyle and a neglect of the potential benefits of leisure time, including how it can be effectively and productively utilized to enrich both personal and academic life. Leisure activities are critical in enhancing university students’ lives across various dimensions, including physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being [15].

When practiced during free time, these activities are not merely for passing time but are opportunities for personal growth, self-exploration, and meaningful engagement. Leisure activities have multifaceted, benefits, enhancing physical, mental, spiritual, and social well-being. Research consistently shows a positive impact of exercise on mental health, promoting emotions like vigour, pleasure, and energy while mitigating anxiety, tension, nervousness, and fatigue [16].

These findings highlight how leisure, specifically physical activities, contributes to physical fitness, emotional resilience and overall quality of life [15]. Students can explore their leisure time by admiring nature while integrating simple yogic postures and exercises, as explained in naturopathy. This approach emphasizes connecting with nature [17].

Nature offers more than just physical activity opportunities; it serves as a medium for emotional, spiritual, and cognitive rejuvenation, strengthens social bonds with friends and family, and mitigates stress’s physiological and psychological impacts. Therefore, nature acts as a natural and effective stress buster [18]. Engaging with natural environments can allow university students to reflect on their lives and develop a positive and stronger sense of self [19]. To sustain this connection with nature and its associated well-being benefits among university students, concerted efforts are needed to promote outdoor recreation. Encouraging interactions with nature from an early age can foster a lifelong affinity for natural environments and continued positive well-being outcomes throughout different stages of their academic lives [20].

Although many students report regular meal consumption, many skip breakfast, a habit prevalent among university students often due to time-saving reasons. Breakfast is universally acknowledged as an important meal, providing essential micro and macronutrients and energy for daily activities. Even for weight loss, omitting breakfast is not an acceptable solution for maintaining good health in the long term [21]. Skipping breakfast might not affect health immediately but can lead to various health challenges over time [22]. Educating university students about the health implications of not consuming breakfast is crucial for raising awareness and helping them make informed dietary decisions [23]. This habit of skipping breakfast begins in university, where students rush to early morning classes and neither prioritizes sleep nor have breakfast. Breakfast provides essential nutrients like carbohydrates, protein, fats, and fiber, nourishing the body after an overnight fast, supporting behavioural and cognitive function, and helping one stay physically active all day [24]. Research shows that not consuming breakfast is associated with higher risks of morbidities, numerous metabolic and cardiovascular disorders, and poor academic performance [25]. Those who skip breakfast are more likely to overeat or choose less nutritious and unhealthy options due to increased hunger and time constraints. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced and nutritious breakfast can foster a positive mind-set and lead to a healthier lifestyle [26]. Therefore, students should be highly encouraged to prioritize breakfast.

Data analysis reveals that students often resort to processed, readymade, energy-dense, nutrient-poor (EDNP) foods due to a sedentary lifestyle and lack of time for fresh fruits and vegetables. Research shows that higher frequency and more significant expenditure on on-campus food and beverages are linked to increased consumption of EDNP foods [27]. Universities must pay closer attention to the healthfulness of their food environments and what is sold or provided on campus. Improving the availability and promotion of nutritious food options could reduce the consumption of EDNP foods among students [28].

Additionally, students should be encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyle practices, avoid readymade EDNP foods, and consuming healthy, natural, and nutritious food to prevent future health complications.

Statistics show that students eating habits change significantly when they start attending university, as they become responsible for their food and dietary choices [29]. Many students report stress-induced eating, linked to academic workload, financial constraints, competition, exams, homesickness, disrupted sleep patterns, and social challenges [30]. Stress is closely associated with anxiety and depression, prevalent issues among university students. Studies show that around 20% to 25% of student’s experience stress at any given time, with half struggling with anxiety and depression. Various causes include academic pressures, financial constraints, competition, exams, homesickness, disrupted sleep patterns, and social challenges [31].

For physical appearance and body shape, university students are often influenced by societal beauty standards, leading to dieting practices to achieve physical attractiveness. This trend is reinforced by social media, which popularizes certain aesthetic ideals such as sharp features, jaw lines, oval faces, and large eyes [32]. These beauty standards, often propagated by celebrities and influencers, create benchmarks for attractiveness. The competitive nature of modern lifestyles fosters a culture of comparison, leading students to perceive their physical features as inadequate compared to others [33].

Consequently, students may develop an inferiority complex. It is important to understand that dieting should focus on physical and mental activeness rather than merely achieving an attractive appearance [34].

The data show that some students do not prioritize their physical health and exercise less. For yoga, some students have not tried it, or if they did, they experienced minimal or no effects, possibly due to incorrect practice or lack of guidance. If not engaging in regular exercise, students should at least practice yoga under the guidance of a trained practitioner, as yoga offers tremendous health benefits [35].

Yoga is an ancient practice that can help students to improve their physical, mental, and spiritual health. Yoga enhances flexibility, strengthens muscles and positively impacts mental health [36]. Also, yoga reveals a positive impact on depression, anxiety, and stress [37]. It inculcates mindfulness, helps students stay attentive in class, increases concentration, cognitive function, and brings mental clarity. Regular yoga fosters self-awareness and emotional regulation, helping students manage anxiety and depression, and supporting their emotional well-being [38]. Additionally, practicing yoga can improve sleep quality through stress-reducing methods. Yoga teaches the link between mind and body, fostering a sense of harmony, equilibrium, and holistic well-being, positively impacting students’ lives [39].

The study revealed that with technological advancements and high academic pressure, students are increasingly use electronic gadgets, leading to high screen time and disturbed sleep patterns. The use of screen time and sleep are interlinked [40]. University students face numerous challenges impacting their sleep patterns and habits [41]. Social pressures, high academic workloads, and irregular schedules make students more prone to sleep deprivation and sleep-related problems [42]. The university environment offers many entertainment options that can negatively affect sleep schedules, such as late-night social activities, energy drinks, excessive caffeine, pending assignments, and presentations. The unhealthy lifestyle and academic workload intentionally and unintentionally expose students to screen-based technologies [43]. Research highlights that greater screen time and physical inactivity lead to poor sleep quality among students [44]. Excessive use of smart phones and other devices before bedtime can cause sleep disturbances and contribute to mental ailments like insomnia [45,46]. An imbalance between academic, personal, and social life can also impact sleep quality and quantity [47].

The study found that while most students avoid alcohol and smoking, a small percentage engage in these behaviours. Various factors contribute to such habits, with stress being a primary factor. Social, psychological, and environmental factors also play roles [48]. Moving to new cities, residing in hostels or paying guest accommodations, facing new academic challenges, and managing personal expenses contribute to stress, leading some students to use substances as coping mechanisms [49].

Substance use among university students is linked to harmful outcomes, including academic underachievement, health problems, inadvertent injuries, risky sexual behaviour, and increased risks of psychiatric and physical health disorders [50]. Therefore, it is essential to encourage students to avoid these life-threatening addictions.

Funding Statement

• Funding: None.