Assessment Of The Nutritional Status Of Engineering And Architecture College Students (18-25 YEARS) And Their Association With The Sleep Cycle And Anxiety.

College life, particularly in academically demanding fields such as engineering and architecture, often places students under substantial academic and lifestyle pressures. These challenges may lead to poor dietary habits, disrupted sleep cycles, and increased anxiety, which collectively impact overall health. The present study aimed to assess the nutritional status of engineering and architecture students aged 18–25 years and examine its relationship with sleep quality, anxiety levels, and lifestyle behaviors. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 students from two colleges in Mumbai using purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires covering demographics, dietary intake (24-hour recall and Food Frequency Questionnaire), and lifestyle patterns. Sleep quality and daytime sleepiness were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), while anxiety was measured with the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 Scale. Results showed that male students reported a higher mean body weight and nutrient intake (63.8%) compared to females (55%). Significant gender differences were observed in food preferences and anxiety symptoms. Architecture students and hostel residents demonstrated higher energy intake but poorer sleep quality and greater sleep disturbances. Binge eating and anxiety-related behaviors were more common among females and students residing at home. Overall, dietary patterns revealed frequent consumption of processed foods, while intakes of energy, protein, and fiber were below recommended levels. A moderate correlation was found between daytime sleepiness and anxiety (r = 0.401, p < 0.01). The findings underscore the multifaceted relationship between nutrition, sleep, and mental health, highlighting the urgent need for integrated interventions that promote balanced diets, sleep hygiene, and stress management among college students.