Factors Affecting Dietary Patterns Among Students At International Health Sciences University

Abstract

Introduction: Poor eating habits is a major public health concern among young adults who experience transition into university life during which; they are exposed to stress and lack of time. Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the factors affecting dietary patterns among students at International Health Sciences University. The objectives were; to determine the socio-demographic, individual and institutional related factors affecting the dietary patterns. Methodology: The study utilized a cross-sectional study design and comprised of 103 students from three faculties at the university. Data collection was by use questionnaires. Stratified random sampling technique and simple random sampling were used to obtain the participants. Results: Students with healthy diet/patterns (46.6%) were less than those with unhealthy diet/patterns and the healthy dietary patterns included; eating three or more meals a day (49.5%), taking breakfast before classes (64.1%), taking 4 or more glasses of water per day (60.2%), not skipping meals (25.2%), not consuming fats often (87.4%), considering a balanced diet while making food choices (7.8%) and consuming fruits and vegetables. Availability of favourite food within reach (P=0.032), availability of fruits and vegetables within reach (P=0.038) and food consumed at the food courts around campus (P=0.000) had significant association with the dietary patterns of students. Conclusion and recommendation: 53.4% had unhealthy diet/patterns with the major unhealthy dietary patterns being; not considering a balanced diet while making food choices (92.2%) and skipping meals (74.8%). The major reasons for skipping meals are lack of financial funds and busy schedule. According to the findings, it is recommended that students should be educated about healthy eating behaviours and their benefits