Evaluating the reach of restrictive dietary practices: prevalence and awareness among young females (18–30 years)

Growing popularity of restrictive dietary practices exists among young women; however, their effects on health and factors driving adoption of restrictive dietary practices among young Indian women remain underexplored. The study assessed prevalence, awareness, and effects of perceived restrictive dietary practices among young adult Indian women (18–30 years). A cross-sectional pilot study using online survey was performed pan-India using a pre-tested questionnaire. A total of 230 young women who provided consent and met eligibility criteria completed the study. Information on socio-demographics, nutrition knowledge, dietary habits, and perceived effects of restrictive dietary practices were collected. Descriptive statistics and chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests were performed to investigate associations between age, education attainment status, and outcomes. The study reported a prevalence of adoption of restrictive dietary practices was 20.9%, with higher adoption rates among women > 23 years of age (31.7%). The ketogenic diet was the most popular perceived restrictive dietary practice; however, intermittent fasting was the most widely practiced (65.6%). Personal factors, especially physical appearance, predominantly motivated the adoption of restrictive dietary practices (96.3%). Postgraduate participants demonstrated significantly higher nutrition knowledge and healthier dietary practices ( p < 0.05) than graduates. Younger women and postgraduates reported significantly lower perceived negative physical and psychological effects of restrictive dieting. The prevalence of restrictive dieting among young adult Indian women, primarily driven by personal factors rather than social pressures. Age and education shape awareness, adoption, and perceived effects. Enhancing nutrition education, formal nutrition education, and digital literacy strategies is imperative to mitigate misconceptions and promote evidence-based dietary practices. Further larger studies with objective assessments of nutritional status and nutritional adequacy are recommended. No level of evidence, Basic Science.