Irregular eating habits: how they affect nutrition and health in adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: Irregular dietary patterns during adolescence are associated with the development of nutritional status disorders due to the influence of family, social, cultural, and emotional factors. These practices may contribute to malnutrition related to both deficiency and excess, becoming a significant public health concern. Objective: To analyze irregular dietary practices and their relationship with nutrition and health among adolescents aged 10 to 15 years from an educational institution in Pasaje canton. Methodology: A descriptive study with a quantitative approach and a non-experimental cross-sectional design was conducted. The sample consisted of 138 students aged between 10 and 15 years. Data were collected using the validated CARME questionnaire, composed of 38 multiple-choice items based on a Likert scale. Information was gathered through printed surveys and subsequently organized and analyzed using SPSS version 26, where statistical tables were generated. Results: Findings showed that 37.7% of participants had normal weight, while 62.3% presented alterations in their nutritional condition. In addition, a high preference for ultra-processed products and sugary beverages, as well as sensitivity to external food-related stimuli, was identified. Conclusion: Most adolescents presented some form of malnutrition, in which irregular dietary practices negatively influenced health and quality of life, increasing the risk of short- and long-term complications. These findings highlight the importance of implementing nutrition education strategies and health promotion programs.