Association of Prakriti with Dietary Habits, Nutritional Status, and Morbidity Patterns among School-Aged Children: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Prakriti (constitutional type) is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda that reflects an individual’s inherent physiological and psychological characteristics. It is considered relevant to dietary preferences, nutritional status, and disease susceptibility. Understanding its association with these factors in children may provide insights for individualized dietary guidance and preventive health strategies. Objectives: To assess the association of Prakriti with dietary habits, nutritional status, and disease prevalence among apparently healthy school-aged children. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among apparently healthy school-aged children. Prakriti was assessed using a validated Ayurvedic assessment tool. 120 apparently healthy subjects were selected based on dominant prakriti with 40 children each categorized as Vata, Pitta, or Kapha dominant. Dietary habits were assessed using a structured questionnaire, while calorie intake was estimated using a 24-hour dietary recall. Nutritional status was evaluated through anthropometric measurements, and disease prevalence was assessed based on past medical history. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Significant variations were observed across Prakriti groups in dietary habits, calorie intake, nutritional status, and prevalence of selected health conditions (p < 0.05). Distinct patterns in dietary practices and calorie intake were observed across Vata, Pitta, and Kapha groups. Variations in reported disease prevalence were also observed among the three Prakriti groups. Conclusion: The findings indicate an association between Prakriti and dietary habits, nutritional status, and disease prevalence among school-aged children. These observations may inform individualized dietary guidance and preventive health strategies. However, causal relationships cannot be established from this observational study, and further research is warranted to evaluate the clinical relevance of these associations.