HUBUNGAN DIET AND BEHAVIOUR DENGAN FAKTOR RISIKO GEJALA PENYAKIT GASTROINTESTINAL

Introduction: Digestive disorders or gastrointestinal diseases are common problems experienced by adolescents and are greatly influenced by eating patterns and behaviors. Unhealthy eating patterns such as irregular eating frequency and consumption of low-nutrient foods can increase the risk of gastrointestinal symptoms.
Objective: This study aims to analyze the relationship between eating patterns and behaviors (diet and behavior) with risk factors for gastrointestinal symptoms in adolescents.
Method: This study used a quantitative observational correlational approach with a cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 261 students from MTs Muhammadiyah 1 Malang City who were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using the Diet and Behavior Scale (DABS) and Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using Pearson's correlation test.
Results: The majority of respondents had a moderate dietary pattern based on the amount (79.7%) and frequency of consumption (70.9%) and experienced moderate gastrointestinal symptoms (72.4%). The bivariate test results showed no significant relationship between the frequency or amount of food consumption and gastrointestinal symptoms (p=0.173; r=0.085 and p=0.452; r=0.047), indicating a very weak correlation.
Conclusion: No significant relationship was found between dietary patterns and gastrointestinal symptoms in adolescents. Other factors such as stress, sleep quality, and physical activity are thought to contribute. Prevention efforts are still needed through balanced nutrition education and the implementation of a comprehensive healthy lifestyle.