“More than 70% of adolescents skip breakfast—and many exceed their daily calorie needs, yet remain undernourished.” This paradoxical trend highlights the complex, often contradictory landscape of adolescent nutrition in Nepal.

In Nepal, adolescence marks a pivotal stage of physical and mental development. Yet this period is increasingly threatened by poor food habits shaped by urbanization, media influence, and shifting cultural norms. In Kathmandu alone, where traditional meals once formed the staple of youth diets, fast food, sugary snacks, and meal-skipping behaviors are on the rise. The implications for long-term health are significant—ranging from undernutrition to obesity, and even future risk of chronic illnesses.

This article is based on a recent cross-sectional study conducted among 131 adolescents in Kathmandu. The study aimed to assess food consumption patterns and nutritional status in youth aged 10 to 18, exploring the factors influencing their choices. The results, while localized, echo a broader concern across low- and middle-income countries: how modern influences are reshaping traditional diets and the future health of a generation.

II. Key Findings

1. The Nutritional Spectrum: Underweight to Obese

The BMI results from the study paint a concerning picture: although a slight majority (51.9%) had normal weight, 28.2% were underweight, and almost 1 in 5 adolescents were overweight or obese. Notably, these imbalances occurred despite over 58% of respondents consuming more calories than the recommended daily allowance (RDA). This points not just to quantity of food, but the quality and nutritional value of what is consumed. Adolescents may be consuming energy-dense but nutrient-poor food—such as fried snacks, sugary drinks, and processed meals—leading to ‘hidden hunger’ where caloric intake is high but essential micronutrients are lacking.

2. Breakfast is Skipped, Not Optional

The most skipped meal was breakfast, with 73.3% of adolescents reporting that they missed it regularly. Skipping breakfast is associated globally with poor academic performance, irritability, fatigue, and even weight gain over time. In Nepal’s context, early school hours, lack of parental supervision, and limited food preparation time in the morning contribute to this habit. Adolescents also reported not feeling hungry or intentionally skipping meals to lose weight. These patterns may suggest early signs of disordered eating behaviors that should be addressed through awareness and counseling.

3. Taste Reigns Supreme in Food Decisions

A staggering 95.4% of respondents indicated that taste influenced their eating decisions the most, surpassing family, culture, and even health knowledge. This finding suggests that health interventions must take taste into account—promoting healthy food that’s also enjoyable. While taste alone was not statistically linked to BMI, it does help explain the high preference for fast food and snacks. Global food marketing often emphasizes taste as a key selling point, and this aligns with the adolescents’ responses.

4. Physical Activity Makes a Difference

The study found a significant positive association between regular physical activity and healthy BMI. 85.5% of adolescents engaged in some form of physical activity such as walking or playing sports. This is promising, but the quality, frequency, and intensity of that activity remain unmeasured. Further research can identify which activities yield the best outcomes and how school schedules or urban infrastructure support or hinder active lifestyles.

5. Media, Religion, and Peers: Little Measured Impact

While peer influence, religion, and media are often assumed to shape food choices, the study found no strong statistical associations between these factors and nutritional status. This might reflect a growing independence among adolescents in urban Nepal, where personal preferences like taste and convenience override traditional expectations. However, the influence of media and advertising may be more subtle and long-term than what short-term surveys can detect.

III. Implications

Public Health Impacts

The dual burden of malnutrition is becoming more visible in Nepal: underweight and overweight adolescents co-exist in the same classrooms. Underweight teens are at risk for stunted growth, weakened immunity, and poor academic performance, while overweight adolescents face increased risk of hypertension, diabetes, and mental health issues such as low self-esteem and depression. Early interventions can prevent lifelong complications and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

Economic Consequences

Malnourished adolescents often grow into adults with reduced earning potential and higher medical expenses. At a national scale, poor adolescent nutrition can affect workforce productivity and economic growth. For Nepal, which is striving for economic development and youth empowerment, ignoring adolescent nutrition could slow progress and increase dependence on healthcare resources later.

Social and Cultural Dimensions

Nepal is experiencing a shift from traditional communal meals to more individualistic and fast-paced eating behaviors. The rise in fast food consumption indicates cultural adaptation to global trends, often at the cost of nutrition. Additionally, gender-based dynamics were observed—boys reported more peer influence, while girls cited family influence and concerns about weight. These nuanced cultural shifts suggest that nutrition campaigns should be tailored to reflect the lived realities of modern Nepali adolescents.

IV. Solutions

Evidence-Based Recommendations

1. Schools should introduce regular nutrition education classes that address real-life scenarios—like how to build a healthy lunchbox or read food labels.
   2. Reinstating breakfast programs, especially in schools with early start times, can ensure students begin the day with adequate energy.
   3. Incorporate structured physical education, not just optional sports days. Encourage walking or cycling to school where feasible.
   4. Include parents in nutrition workshops to reinforce learning at home.
   5. Monitor and regulate food vendors around schools to reduce exposure to unhealthy options.

Case Studies from Similar Contexts

Brazil’s School Feeding Program mandates local produce and provides one or two nutritious meals per school day, improving attendance and health. India’s Mid-Day Meal Scheme significantly boosted student retention and reduced malnutrition. Bangladesh has piloted peer-led ‘nutrition clubs’ where adolescents promote healthy habits. Nepal could adopt hybrid models combining these strategies in ways that respect local context and infrastructure.

Call to Action

Policymakers, educators, and parents must treat adolescent nutrition as a priority—not just a background issue. Integrated approaches involving the school curriculum, family culture, urban planning, and food regulation can create an environment where healthy choices are easy and appealing. Nepal’s future depends on how it invests in its youth today.

Kamala Shrestha is a public health researcher with a focus on nutrition and lifestyle behaviors among healthcare professionals. She holds a degree in Home Science and has a passion for exploring the intersection of work environments, dietary habits, and health outcomes. This article is based on the findings of her thesis, which she submitted as part of her academic journey.

Healthcare professionals (HCPs) are often seen as the torchbearers of health and wellness, guiding patients toward better dietary choices and healthier lifestyles. Yet, behind the scenes, many HCPs struggle to maintain their own nutritional well-being. This article is the article version of the thesis I submitted, and I am sharing what I found during my research. A study conducted among 171 healthcare professionals in Nepal sheds light on this paradox, revealing alarming trends in dietary patterns and nutritional status that demand immediate attention.

The study, conducted across three healthcare institutions in Gokarna Municipality, found that more than half (52.03%) of HCPs worked grueling shifts of 8-12 hours daily. This demanding schedule took a toll on their eating habits, with 72.73% admitting to occasionally skipping meals. Breakfast, often hailed as the most important meal of the day, was the most frequently missed, with 31.97% of participants forgoing it altogether.

The consequences of these irregular eating patterns were evident in the dietary choices of the participants. A staggering 71.34% reported regular consumption of fast food, while an overwhelming 91.97% admitted to consuming sugary drinks. These habits, coupled with limited water intake and high stress levels, contributed to a concerning nutritional profile. Nearly half (48.17%) of the participants were classified as “Overweight” or “Pre-Obese,” and 50.84% faced high health risks based on their Body Mass Index (BMI).

The Hidden Struggles of Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals are often perceived as paragons of health, but the reality is far more complex. Their jobs are inherently stressful, involving long hours, emotional strain, and physically demanding tasks. These factors, combined with irregular shifts, make it difficult for HCPs to prioritize their own health. As one nurse participating in the study shared, “When you’re rushing from one patient to another, grabbing a quick snack or skipping a meal becomes the norm rather than the exception.”

This sentiment is echoed globally. A 2023 study by Gołabek et al. found that midwives working shift schedules in Poland faced similar challenges, with irregular meal patterns and high consumption of processed foods being common. The study also highlighted the impact of such diets on micronutrient deficiencies, which can further exacerbate fatigue and reduce cognitive function.

The Role of Sociodemographic Factors

The study also highlighted the role of sociodemographic factors in shaping dietary patterns and health outcomes. Younger HCPs, particularly those aged 20-25, were more likely to exhibit unhealthy eating behaviors and face obesity-related risks. This aligns with findings from Karthijekan and Angela (2020), who noted that younger individuals often prioritize convenience over nutrition, leading to poorer dietary choices.

Marital status also played a significant role. The findings of this research indicated that married HCPs were found to be obese, with a higher waist-to-hip ratio and  single HCPs, especially those living alone, were more prone to relying on fast food and skipping meals. Smoking and low water intake were additional risk factors, with both behaviors significantly associated with higher BMI and Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) risks.

Interestingly, gender differences were also observed. Female HCPs had a higher prevalence of WHR-related health risks, consistent with findings from Gupta (2017) and the Chinese Nutrition Society (2020). This could be attributed to biological factors, such as differences in fat distribution, as well as societal pressures that may lead women to adopt restrictive or unhealthy diets.

The Caloric Conundrum

One of the most striking findings of the study was the imbalance in caloric intake among HCPs. Over 40% of participants consumed either insufficient or excessive calories, both of which can have serious health implications. Insufficient caloric intake can lead to fatigue, weakened immunity, and impaired cognitive function, while excessive intake is a key driver of obesity and metabolic disorders.

This caloric imbalance is not unique to Nepal. A 2022 study by Ydyrysheva et al. found that medical workers in shift-based roles often struggle with maintaining a balanced diet, leading to similar patterns of over- or under-eating. The study also noted that shift work disrupts circadian rhythms, further complicating dietary habits and increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome.

The Ripple Effect on Patient Care

The implications of poor nutrition among HCPs extend far beyond individual health. Research by Lemaire et al. (2010) has shown that inadequate nutrition can impair cognitive function, reduce energy levels, and negatively impact decision-making abilities. For healthcare professionals, whose jobs require precision, focus, and empathy, these effects can be particularly detrimental.

In low-resource settings like Nepal, where healthcare systems are already under strain, the well-being of HCPs is critical to sustaining effective healthcare delivery. As Dr. Chen (2021) aptly noted in his study on the dietary health of medical workers, “When healthcare professionals are unhealthy, the entire healthcare system suffers.”

A Call to Action: What Can Be Done?

The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for interventions at both the individual and institutional levels. Workplace wellness programs that prioritize nutritional education, stress management, and access to healthier food options could go a long way in improving dietary habits among HCPs. For example, hospitals could establish on-site cafeterias offering balanced meals, or provide HCPs with meal vouchers for healthier options.

Policies that encourage regular meal breaks and reduce time constraints are also essential. As Simkhada et al. (2011) noted in their study on civil servants in Nepal, even small changes in workplace policies can have a significant impact on employees’ health and productivity.

Moreover, future research should incorporate comprehensive nutritional assessments, including laboratory tests for micronutrient levels, lipid profiles, and glucose levels, to provide a more holistic understanding of HCPs’ nutritional status. Such data could inform targeted interventions, such as personalized nutrition plans or supplementation programs.

The Bigger Picture: A Healthier Future for Healthcare Professionals

The study serves as a timely reminder that healthcare professionals are not immune to the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In fact, their unique circumstances—long hours, high stress, and irregular shifts—make them particularly vulnerable to poor dietary habits and their associated health risks.

Addressing these challenges is not just a moral imperative but a practical necessity. Healthier healthcare professionals mean healthier patients—and a healthier society. As the study concludes, “Ensuring the well-being of HCPs is not just an investment in their health, but an investment in the health of the communities they serve.”

In a world where HCPs are often too busy caring for others to care for themselves, this study is a wake-up call. It’s time to prioritize the health of those who dedicate their lives to healing others. After all, a healthier healthcare workforce is the foundation of a healthier world.

Plants have long been a cornerstone of traditional medicine and nutrition, with their bioactive components contributing significantly to their medicinal value. One such plant genus with notable bioactive phytochemicals is Linum usitatissimum, commonly known as flax. Flax is an ancient crop primarily cultivated in the northern hemisphere, where it thrives in colder climates. Canada is currently the world’s largest producer of flaxseed, followed by China, Russia, the USA, India, Nepal, and several European countries. This plant is grown for both its fiber and its nutrient-rich seeds, known as flaxseeds or linseeds.

Flax fibers are used to produce the renowned textile linen, a material with a history spanning over 5,000 years [1]. Egyptian priests wore linen garments daily, and even the mummies of pharaohs were wrapped in fine linen fabrics, many of which have been preserved to this day. Linen is believed to offer several health benefits, such as improving blood circulation and enhancing sleep quality, while its unique frequency is currently being studied for its potential healing properties [2].

Given that the seed is the most utilized part of the plant, the whole plant is often referred to as the flaxseed plant. Flaxseed has been valued for centuries for its nutritional and therapeutic properties. Initially prized by indigenous communities, it has recently gained popularity among contemporary populations for its health benefits. In Ayurvedic medicine, flaxseed is renowned for its medicinal properties and healing potential. The gel derived from flaxseed is traditionally applied externally for healing bone fractures and treating skin conditions, while flaxseed oil is believed to enhance memory, improve blood circulation, boost immunity, and reduce bad cholesterol levels.

Flaxseed is an abundant source of proteins, lignans, omega-3 fatty acids, and other phytochemicals, providing numerous health advantages. It is reported to contain a high percentage (87.8-89.8%) of unsaturated fatty acids, making it an excellent source of healthy fats [3]. Research has shown that flaxseed oil is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid essential for neuron myelination and memory formation [4]. Furthermore, flaxseed is a rich source of protein, comprising 23% of its total weight, and is considered a complete protein containing all essential amino acids. A comparative study revealed that flaxseed has a higher total protein content than soybeans, with a quality score of 82% [5].

The high fiber content in flaxseed helps absorb cholesterol and triglycerides, regulate blood sugar levels, and boost metabolism, thereby aiding in weight management [6]. Flaxseed is also rich in vitamins E and K, and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which support blood clotting, calcium deposition, and skin health [7].

Flaxseed’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly beneficial for overall health. It is often recommended by doctors for heart disease, obesity, bone deformities, and especially for treating hormonal imbalances in women. As a phytoestrogen, flaxseed naturally balances estrogen, the hormone responsible for regulating bone mass density, menstruation, and various other processes in females. It is especially beneficial for women over the age of 45 who are approaching menopause [8].

To utilize its diverse properties, flaxseed is formulated into tablets, emulsions, and powders to treat various ailments. The most common formulation is flaxseed oil capsules, which are rich in fatty acids and are effective for enhancing memory, improving skin health, and supporting weight loss. These capsules serve as an excellent alternative to fish oil for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, flaxseed can be incorporated into daily meals by adding flaxseed powder to cooked foods or using it as a seasoning for salads.

Despite its well-documented nutritional benefits, flaxseed remains underutilized. Given its potential, it is crucial to raise awareness about this beneficial seed and encourage its wider use in daily diets.