Association Between Sleep Quality, Body Mass, And Health Risk Factors in University Students

Abstract

Background: Obesity and sleep disorders can adversely affect the quality of life. It is important to recognize the risk factors associated with obesity and sleep disorders to minimize their effects on health. This study aimed to identify the relationship between sleep quality (SQ), body mass index (BMI), and associated health factors such as body composition (fat-free mass (FFM), fat percentage), sex, diet patterns (meal timing, vegetable intake, and caffeine consumption), and unhealthy behaviors (smoking and physical activity) among King Saud University students (KSU). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at KSU University, and 184 students were included. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, including sociodemographic information, physical activity, Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). In Body 770 was used to measure body composition. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software. Results: A significant association was observed between SQ and weight gain or loss (p= 0.034). Health-related factors were not associated with SQ. Conclusion: The results of this study added to our knowledge of the association between SQ and BMI and increased public awareness of the importance of maintaining a good sleeping quality to achieve healthy body weight, as doing so helps to prevent future health issues brought on by unhealthy body weight.