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VOL. 11, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Intermittent fasting and nutritional health: A study on awareness and dietary behaviour among college students
Authors
Hrishita Mondal, Neetu Singh, Sunita Mishra, Anu Ram Kailash Mishra, Tanya Singh
Abstract
Fasting has long been practiced for cultural and spiritual purposes and
has recently gained popularity as a dietary strategy, notably Intermittent
Fasting (IF), which emphasizes meal timing rather than food restriction. This
study aimed to assess the nutritional knowledge, dietary behaviours, and
fasting practices of university students and examine the association between
knowledge and fasting management. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among
100 undergraduate and postgraduate students (aged 18-25 years) at Babasaheb
Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, selected through stratified random
sampling. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire covering
socio-demographics, anthropometrics, dietary habits, fasting practices, and
nutritional literacy. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were applied
using SPSS (version 20.0), with significance set at p < 0.05. Results
indicated that 53% of participants were male and 47% female, with 71% belonging
to the middle socio-economic class. BMI analysis showed 52% with normal weight,
28% overweight, and 20% underweight. Fasting was practiced by 46% of students,
predominantly selective fasting (57%), while 78% were aware of intermittent
fasting, primarily through social media (80%). Nutritional literacy was
generally high, with 92% aware of macronutrients and 97% acknowledging
hydration importance; however, only 51% had consulted a nutrition professional.
A significant association (p < 0.05) was observed between higher
nutritional knowledge and structured fasting behaviours, indicating that
informed students followed more balanced and consistent eating practices. The
findings suggest that while students possess strong theoretical nutrition
knowledge, gaps persist in its practical application, and reliance on social
media underscores the need for evidence-based education. Strengthening
nutritional literacy through academic programs, expert guidance, and awareness
campaigns can promote healthier dietary and fasting behaviours among young
adults.
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Pages:110-116
How to cite this article:
Hrishita Mondal, Neetu Singh, Sunita Mishra, Anu Ram Kailash Mishra, Tanya Singh "Intermittent fasting and nutritional health: A study on awareness and dietary behaviour among college students". International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition, Vol 11, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 110-116
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