Selected obesity-related dietary behaviours, body mass index, and depressive symptoms among university students: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to examine the associations between selected obesity-related dietary behaviours and body mass index (BMI) and to investigate the association between BMI and depressive symptoms among university students. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 632 university students aged 18–24 years in Türkiye. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, dietary behaviours, physical activity, and screen time. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Participants were classified according to the World Health Organization BMI criteria. Logistic and linear regression analyses were performed. Results: Higher dietary behaviour scores were associated with lower odds of belonging to the increased BMI category (OR=0.91, p<0.001), whereas higher caloric intake from sugar-sweetened beverages was associated with increased BMI (OR=1.02, p<0.001). Physical activity level was significantly associated with BMI (p=0.010). No significant association was found between BMI and fruit consumption, vegetable consumption, or screen time. BMI was significantly associated with depressive symptoms (ß=0.15, p=0.004). Conclusion: Selected obesity-related dietary behaviours, sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, and lower physical activity levels were associated with higher BMI among university students. Furthermore, higher BMI was associated with greater depressive symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of integrated interventions targeting both healthy lifestyle behaviours and mental well-being in young adults.