Published Paper Details:

The present study was carried out to assess the dietary pattern and physical fitness among late adolescent girls (18-20 years). 100 respondents were taken into the study by using purposive random sampling method. The current study was completed at Smt. V.H.D Central Institute of Home Science College, Seshadri Road, Bangalore-01. The main purpose of the study was to assess the anthropometric measurement of the subjects, to evaluate the dietary pattern of the subjects, and physical fitness among the subjects, to compare the physical fitness of the subjects with dietary pattern. A set of questions was used to collect the data on demographic profile, diet survey, anthropometric measurement, and physical fitness. The study inferred that the respondents were aged between 18-20 years. Majority of the respondents (70%) were non-vegetarian and 64 percent of the respondents have the habit of skipping meals and 38 percent of the respondents steered clear of breakfast. 24 hours dietary recall (3 consecutive days) were done on 25 percent of the subjects. Suitable statistical tests were applied. The results shows that energy, protein intake of the respondents was lower and fat intake is higher compared to the recommended dietary allowance [RDA]. The statistical tests show a significant difference between the intake and RDA for energy, protein, fat. It is found that majority (83%) of the subjects had very poor performance on push ups test and also it is found that majority (97%) had very poor performance for the sit ups test. Response on sitting flex test among respondents had average response on sitting flex test followed by 35 percent, 19 percent had fair and good response. Also the response for floor touch test among the respondents, it is found that 72 percent were disqualified followed by 28 percent were qualified. In 3 minutes step test 33 percent of the respondents had good response followed by 23 percent had above average response and 13 percent had average and below average response. It is also found that in 12 minutes running test, 31 percent of the respondents are categorized as above average followed by 30 percent are categorized as below average and 16 percent of the respondents are categorized as average and poor and 7 percent are categorized as excellent score. Creation of awareness on the importance of physical activities among adolescents would lead to healthier food choices and proper weight for age.