Exploring the Impact of Seasonal Variations (Winter and Summer) on Physical Activity, Dietary Habits, Nutrient Intake, and Wellness among University Students of Age 18-30

Abstract

Seasonal changes can influence university students’ physical activity, dietary habits, nutrient intake, and well-being. Research suggests activity and diet often shift with the seasons. Understanding these effects is important for student health support. This study explores how seasonal variation impacts these factors among university students. To explore the impact of seasonal variations on physical activity, dietary habits, nutrients intake and wellness among university students of age 18-30. A cross-sectional study based on 200 university students was conducted at the superior university, Lahore for 4 months (after the approval of synopsis). The sampling technique used was a convenient sampling technique. The study was carried out by using a survey-based questionnaire. Sampling selection was conducted through the inclusion criteria (all male and female students aged 18-30). For the analysis of data SPSS version 25.0 was used. Statistical examination proved that there was a major variation in the health-related behaviors based on seasons. The correlation between BMI and physical activity was significant during winter (p = 0.003), and not during summer (p = 0.333). Poor energy was also closely associated with poor consumption of high-protein foods during summer (p < 0.001) and winter (p = 0.003), although the association between changes in appetite, and the consumption of fruits, was also high in summer (p < 0.001), compared to winter (p = 0.066). Moreover, the stress and its effect on mental health also demonstrated high significance in summer (p < 0.001) and winter (p = 0.002). Based on these findings, seasonal exposure and food intake are important determinants of physical activity, energy expenditure and mental health. Changes in seasons as well as food intake have a considerable effect on physical activity, energy and well-being of the participants. The multiple outcomes of health outcomes that showed statistical significance point towards the possible need to incorporate seasonal factors in health promotion. These results are based on the necessity to introduce specific seasonal interventions aimed at increasing general wellness across seasons.