Association of gastrointestinal symptoms and psychological issues with the intake of fruits, vegetables, and junk food in school children: a community-based study From Melmaruvathur, Tamil Nadu, India

This cross-sectional study examined gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, psychological issues, and nutritional status among schoolchildren in a semi-rural private school. A total of 394 students completed a validated questionnaire on common GI symptoms, while nutritional intake was assessed using a semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Psychological health was evaluated using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and Body Mass Index (BMI) was sourced from school records.

The findings revealed that 28.7% (113/394) of children exhibited significant GI symptoms. Psychological screening indicated probable issues in 18.6% (66/354) and definite issues in 16.4% (58) of the students. Abnormal BMI was observed in 38% (149/385) of participants, with classifications of thinness (11.3%), severe thinness (8.3%), overweight (13.7%), and obesity (5.55%).

The study highlighted low median intake of greens (6.43 g/day), vegetables (30.5 g/day), and fruits (40 g/day), with a majority of participants consuming less than 25% of the recommended intake. Conversely, the median frequency of junk food consumption was 2.3 times per day, and significant associations were observed between junk food intake and adverse GI, psychological, and nutritional outcomes. Notably, F&V intake did not correlate significantly with these parameters.

The results underscore the alarming prevalence of significant GI symptoms and psychological issues among schoolchildren, alongside a concerning trend of increasing junk food consumption and inadequate F&V intake. The study calls for immediate action at multiple societal levels to enhance F&V consumption and reduce junk food intake, thereby improving children’s overall health and well-being. [NPID: Gastrointestinal, psychological, junk food, vegetables, fruits, nutritional]

Year: 2026

Reference: Venkatesh P, K P, Sugumar R, et al. (February 25, 2026) Association of Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Psychological Issues With the Intake of Fruits, Vegetables, and Junk Food in School Children: A Community-Based Study From Melmaruvathur, Tamil Nadu, India. Cureus 18(2): e104262. doi:10.7759/cureus.104262

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