Determination of energy intake and dietary habits and their relationship with physical activity levels and healthy lifestyle behaviours of primary education and pre-service teachers

Abstract

Background: Participation in physical activity (PA) from a young age helps to build the foundation for a healthy life in the future. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between energy intake, dietary habits, PA levels, and healthy lifestyle behaviours (HLSBs) in primary education and pre-service teachers. Material and methods: A total of 105 primary education teachers (69 female, 36 male) and 95 pre-service teachers (64 female, 31 male) participated voluntarily in this study. To determine energy intake and dietary habits, participants completed a form detailing what they had consumed during the previous 24 hours. The short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to determine PA levels. HLSB scores were calculated using the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile questionnaire. Results: There were significant differences in PA levels, HLSB scores and calcium intake between primary education and pre-service teachers (p<0.05). Compared to pre-service teachers, PA levels were significantly lower in primary education teachers, whereas HLSB scores and calcium intake were significantly higher (p<0.05). The correlation analysis indicated significant positive correlations between energy intake/dietary habits, PA levels, and HLSBs (p<0.05). Conclusions: This study suggests that HLSBs are indicators of PA levels and energy intake/dietary habits in primary education and pre-service teachers.