Sugar sweetened beverages consumption among female university students

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the consumption frequency of sugar sweetened beverages, physical activity, BMI values and their relationships among university students.

Material/Methods

The data collection has been carried out with the help of questionnaires. The target population were students between the ages of 18 and 30, who study at the Faculty of Health Sciences (67 students) or at the Faculty of Humanities (64 students). The frequency of beverage consumption was assessed with a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) designed for sugar sweetened beverages and physical activity with the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.

Results

The most frequently consumed sugar sweetened beverage was freshly squeezed or 100% fruit juice in both faculties. The difference between the average BMI of the two groups was statistically significant ( P = 0.035). A non-significant relationship was found between BMI and sugar sweetened beverages consumption.

Conclusions

The most consumed sugar sweetened beverage was freshly squeezed or 100% fruit juice, but it contains a lot of added sugar that contributes to developing overweight. Health education programmes are needed to teach the students of every faculty about healthy drink consumption.