Impact of Dietary Habits on Health Outcomes in Young Adult Females: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction:

The dietary patterns established in young adulthood are critical determinants of long-term health trajectories and chronic disease risk. In India, a nutritional transition characterized by rising consumption of ultra-processed foods is evident, particularly among young women. While this trend is a potential contributor to various adverse gynecological and metabolic health outcomes, region-specific epidemiological data exploring these associations in detail remain scarce.

Aim: To assess the influence of dietary habits on menstrual health parameters, the prevalence of symptoms suggestive of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and the general well-being of young adult females in India.

Material and Methods:A quantitative, cross-sectional study design was employed, conducted between March and May 2024. A structured online questionnaire was administered to a convenience sample of 153 female students aged 18-25 years from higher education institutions. The instrument collected data on dietary intake patterns, menstrual cycle regularity and symptomatology, the presence of PCOS-related features, levels of fatigue, and health literacy. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics. The study protocol received approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee, and informed consent was secured from every participant prior to enrolment.

Results: The study population reported a high prevalence of menstrual irregularities (60%) and chronic fatigue (81%). Clinical features associated with PCOS, such as hirsutism and oligomenorrhoea, were present in 30-35% of respondents. Analysis revealed significant associations between unhealthy dietary patterns—specifically high junk food consumption, insufficient dairy intake, and poor hydration—and a higher incidence of menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea. Conversely, health literacy levels were suboptimal; only 35% of participants possessed adequate knowledge of Breast Self-Examination (BSE), with an even smaller proportion practicing it routinely. Healthier dietary choices were positively correlated with greater health awareness and a lower frequency of health complaints.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate a strong association between poor dietary habits and negative health outcomes, including menstrual dysfunction and diminished well-being, in young Indian women. This evidence underscores an urgent public health imperative for integrated, youth-centric nutritional education and health promotion strategies. Such interventions are vital not only for improving immediate quality of life but also for mitigating the future burden of chronic non-communicable diseases in this demographic.