Relação entre hábitos alimentares e incidência de obstipação em estudantes universitários

Abstract

NTRODUCTION: Constipation is a condition characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements, impacted by factors such as lifestyle and eating habits. Studies indicate a prevalence of up to 26.9% in Brazil, influenced by diets low in fiber and low water intake. Among university students, the risk is increased by a sedentary lifestyle, ultra-processed diet and accelerated routine. OBJECTIVE: To identify the frequency of university students with constipation and the factors associated with this gastrointestinal disorder. METHODOLOGY: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted through the application of an individual questionnaire via Google Forms, with university students from two full-time courses (dentistry and veterinary medicine), at a private university center in the city of Trindade - GO. RESULTS: a total of 55 veterinary medicine and dentistry students participated in this study. The data showed that 56.4% of the students were enrolled in the Dentistry course, and most of them lived with their parents and used a car as a means of transportation. Intestinal constipation was detected in 56.36% of the students, and was associated with low water intake, lower fiber intake, and meals eaten in snack bars. Physical activity was reported by 32.7%, with weight training being the most prevalent. CONCLUSION: Diet plays a relevant role in the development of intestinal constipation, especially low intake of plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and cereals, which are directly related to the worsening of this condition.