Use of Herbal Remedies, Conventional Medicine, Diet and Exercise for Weight Loss: Case Study of University Students in Jordan

摘要

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the preferences of university students for use of herbal remedies, conventional medicine, diet and exercise for weight loss. Methods: This cross-sectional study applied a quantitative research approach using a self-administered questionnaire given to university students in Jordan. A literature review was conducted to search for clinical and experimental evidence concerning the effectiveness and side effects of herbal remedies and conventional medicines used for weight loss that appeared most often in the completed surveys. Results: The majority of university students in this study (83.0%) reported being overweight or obese, with a higher proportion among the male students. Of the obese or overweight students, 82% would prefer to use herbal remedies rather than conventional medicine for weight loss. Ten different types of herbal remedies and another 4 conventional medicines were found to be used by the students for weight loss. Of these, only 6 herbal remedies showed modest evidence to support effectiveness. The majority of students (76.6%) were on low calorie diet plans, while 64.9% declared they got adequate exercise, with significant differences between male and female students. Conclusion: This study highlighted that overweight and obesity are common issues faced by university students, that many students used herbal remedies for weight loss rather than diet or exercise. These findings indicate that universities should involve health-care professionals in discussions with their students about health risks associated with overweight and obesity and to advise them on safe and efficient treatments, as well as appropriate behaviors to achieve weight loss.