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A Recent Study Highlights the Impact of Diet and Physical Activity on University Students’ Mental Health
A recent study published in BMC Public Health has found a significant association between frequent takeaway food consumption, low levels of physical activity, and an increased risk of anxiety and depression among university students. The findings highlight the importance of lifestyle choices in mental health management and the need for interventions targeting young adults.
Declining Mental Health in University Students
Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress are increasingly prevalent among university students worldwide. These conditions not only affect academic performance but also increase the risk of suicidal behaviors. Additionally, prolonged anxiety and depression can contribute to serious health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and gastrointestinal ulcers.
Comorbid depression and anxiety symptoms (CDAS) present a significant concern and can be influenced by factors such as geographic location, financial status, social relationships, and lifestyle habits. Among these lifestyle factors, dietary habits—including the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, sedentary behavior, and erratic sleep patterns—play a crucial role in influencing mental health.
Takeaway Food and Sedentary Behavior: A Growing Concern
Takeaway food, typically defined as hot meals ordered from independent outlets, is often high in unhealthy fats and sugars. University students frequently consume such meals due to convenience and affordability, but long-term consumption can lead to excessive calorie intake and poor nutritional balance.
While previous studies have examined the relationship between diet and mental health, little research has specifically focused on how takeaway food and sedentary behavior jointly impact the risk of depression and anxiety, particularly among university students.
Key Findings from the Study
The study included 14,340 Chinese university students aged 18 to 22 years. Participants completed self-reported surveys assessing their dietary habits, physical activity levels, and mental health status.
Key findings from the study include:
- Over 26% of students reported symptoms of depression, while 34.6% experienced anxiety and 23.8% reported CDAS.
- Increased takeaway food consumption and low physical activity were both linked to a higher risk of CDAS.
- Eating takeaway food four to six times a week doubled the risk of CDAS in both male and female students.
- Female students consuming high amounts of takeaway food were twice as likely to experience CDAS, while male students faced a 50% increased risk.
- Light physical activity increased the risk of CDAS by 35% in males and 20% in females.
- The combination of moderate takeaway food consumption and moderate physical activity increased the likelihood of developing CDAS by 60%, while those consuming takeaway food daily faced an 80% higher risk.
- Even students engaging in vigorous physical activity showed a heightened risk of CDAS when consuming high amounts of takeaway food.
How Lifestyle Choices Impact Mental Health
These results align with previous studies suggesting that healthier eating habits improve mental well-being. Conversely, diets rich in unhealthy fats and sugars can destabilize mood and impair cognitive function by triggering oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain.
Chinese takeaway food, in particular, is often high in sugar, trans fats, and artificial additives while frequently being deep-fried or overcooked. Additionally, ordering takeaway discourages movement, sunlight exposure, and social interaction—all of which are beneficial for mental health.
On the other hand, vigorous physical activity supports brain health by promoting neuroplasticity and regulating mood-related brain regions. Health experts recommend engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity three to five times per week to help mitigate mental health risks.
Conclusion
This study underscores the significant impact of diet and physical activity on mental health, particularly among university students. The findings suggest that reducing takeaway food consumption and engaging in regular physical activity may help lower the risk of depression and anxiety. Universities and health organizations should consider promoting healthier dietary habits and encouraging exercise among students to foster overall well-being.
Disclaimer: This article summarizes research findings for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals experiencing mental health concerns should seek professional guidance from healthcare providers or mental health specialists.
Journal Reference: Zhang, Y., Wan, B., Wang, M., et al. (2025). Associations between takeaway food consumption, physical activity levels, and their joint effect with comorbid depression and anxiety symptoms among Chinese university students. BMC Public Health. doi:10.1186/s12889-025-21605-x.
