Physical activity level and dietary intake among military cadets

Nutritional status is important for all individuals especially in the military unit where intense energy and physical strength is required in maintaining energy balance and operational performance. Unfortunately, there is lack of research regarding category of military in training and diet quality and its association with physical activity. A convenience sample of male cadet trainees (n=47) and female cadet trainees (n=36) completed a validated demographic questionnaire, food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ). The FFQ assessed eating patterns of cadet trainees while IPAQ assessed their physical activity level. Statistical analysis included one-way ANOVA and Post-Hoc test. The average difference in the number of fruits is significantly different, with Post-Hoc assessment indicating cadets consume higher than the other two groups (p=0.010). Next, it is revealed that all activities between female cadet trainees are significantly different (p=0.010, p=0.092, p=0.008 and p=0.04 respectively) with female cadet trainees having the highest average vigorous activities. The present study showed that further improvements and attention on dietary intake of cadet trainees particularly vegetable, fruits, calories, sugar and fat intake are necessary. Educational campaign on healthier food selection should be initiated at the university or training level.