Abstract:

Research-Based Learning (RBL) has emerged as an educational strategy that promotes active learning, critical thinking and the integration of theoretical knowledge with authentic clinical experiences. In medical education, the use of real-world datasets provides opportunities to strengthen students’ understanding of endocrinology, nutrition and cardiometabolic health while developing evidence-based clinical reasoning skills.

This study analyzed the association between ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and metabolic risk markers within a Research-Based Learning experience involving undergraduate medical students. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted using a clinical database containing demographic, anthropometric, clinical and biochemical information. Students participated in data collection activities under faculty supervision and engaged in guided academic discussions focused on obesity, insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk and dietary patterns. Variables analyzed included body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, fasting glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile, insulin concentration and the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index.

A total of 384 participants were included in the final analysis. UPF consumption was categorized as low in 300 participants (78.1%), medium in 76 (19.8%) and high in 8 (2.1%). Significant differences were observed for fasting glucose (p=0.043), insulin concentration (p=0.007), BMI (p=0.018) and age (p=0.013). However, triglycerides and TyG index did not differ significantly across UPF consumption categories. In adjusted regression models, UPF consumption was not independently associated with glucose, triglycerides, insulin or TyG index.

Although higher UPF consumption showed exploratory associations with selected metabolic variables, no robust independent relationship with TyG was identified after adjustment. More importantly, the project demonstrated the educational value of integrating authentic clinical research into endocrinology and nutrition teaching. Through participation in data collection, interpretation of metabolic biomarkers and academic discussions based on real-world evidence, students strengthened competencies in evidence-based medicine, clinical reasoning and critical appraisal of scientific literature.

Keywords:

Research-Based Learning, medical education, endocrinology education.