Association between Student’s Food Habit, Physical Activity and BMI: A Study in Khulna University

Abstract

The research work was conducted on 150 undergraduate and postgraduate students who belonged to the Social Science School of Khulna University. Purposive sampling was followed to select the participants and a semi-structured questionnaire was used in the study to collect data in accordance with the survey research method. The present study shows the association between students’ body mass index and its covariates via bivariate analysis (Fisher's exact tests). Study results indicate that respondents' physical exercise status (p>.02) and sleeping habits (p>.04) were significantly associated with their body mass index. On the other hand, personal attributes and food habits had no association with their body mass index. Moreover, the author suggested that nutritional education programs should be provided by the university for the students which inspire them to pursue a healthy lifestyle.