Eating habits of medical students of the National University of Rosario, Argentina

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the dietary habits of the students at the School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences of the National University of Rosario (UNR), and to compare them with the Dietary Guidelines for the Argentinian population. We carried out a quantitative, descriptive, observational cross-sectional study using a 24- hour dietary recall questionnaire. The sample was made up of 140 students. The declared food consumption showed that 70% consumed milk or yogurt, 56.4% fruits, 79.3% vegetables, 75.7% meats, 62.1% cereals, 20% eggs and 25% cold cuts. Sugar consumption was reported by 46.4% of the students, and use of artificial sweeteners by 20% of them. Most students (81.4%) consumed white bread and only 15.7% whole wheat. While vegetables and sweeteners were more consumed by women, meat and white bread were more consumed by men. Many students met the recommendation for breakfast consumption. The recommended number of daily meals (minimum 4) was met by 77%. Only 12.8% reported eating fruits and vegetables as recommended (5 servings a day). Regarding breads, this sample does not meet the recommendation of selecting whole grains.