Factors Assoced with Well-Being and School Health in Adolescents: Analysis of Habits, Physical Activity and Nutritional

Abstract

In adolescence, it is essential to pay attention to healthy lifestyle and nutritional habits, as these can influence multiple aspects of adult life, such as various health-related conditions. The objective is to analyze the healthy lifestyle and nutritional habits associated with the well-being and health of 148 adolescents in the school environment. In the methodological field, the sociocritical paradigm, qualitative approach, and participatory action research design were implemented. Physical activity habits, nutrition, body perception, self-care, body mass index, blood glucose, cardiovascular parameters, physical endurance, and oxygenation thru oximetry were evaluated. The data analysis incorporates gender differences, trends according to academic level, and students' perceptions of physical activity and nutrition. The results show discrepancies between body perception and actual habits. The presence of sedentary behavior, insufficient consumption of fruits and vegetables, a recent increase in weight, limited physical endurance in part of the population, and a family history of diabetes were identified. In the Discussion, social, school, and family factors influence habits, highlighting the need to implement pedagogical strategies aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles in the adolescent population. These data are consistent with the results of other studies. It can be concluded that the school should establish itself as a critical, reflective, and participatory setting that promotes cultural transformations aimed at building healthy lifestyles in adolescence, thru pedagogical and community strategies..