Assessment of Knowledge, Dietary Habits and Nutritional Status among Mansoura University Students

Abstract

Nutritional status of undergraduates is a priority to ensure a sustainable healthy adulthood, which is affected by their nutritional knowledge, dietary habits and activity. However, there aren't sufficient national research and epidemiological investigations in this area. This study aims to estimate nutritional knowledge, relevant habits and nutritional status among undergraduates. A randomized stratified survey of 658 students (37.5% males and 62.4% females), aged 17 to 25, were chosen from Mansoura university (Agriculture ,Commerce and Nursing colleges).Students filled out a self-reported questionnaire about nutritional knowledge, dietary practices and nutrition assessment. Anthropometric measurement height, weight, and BMI were assessed. Data were statistically analyzed. A Suggested master meal was designed on scientific balanced basis to meet almost of the daily dietary needs that suit this age group, which composed of all nutrients. Results revealed that, students of normal BMI were a majority (56.5%) as (21.2% males compared to 35.3% females). Right nutritional knowledge formed (78.1%), fair nutritional attitude (80.7%) was detected among students. Eating habits demonstrated (51.8%) eating meals regularly. Students announced that daily consumption of breakfast (45.3%), soft drinks (76.6%) and snacks (32.2%). Also, students preferred home (40.7%) as eating site. Results illustrated that, students don't apply healthy diet habits even with good knowledge. Although most of the students are in normal weight, our findings indicate weight gain and bad dietary habits linked to moderate nutritional knowledge which needs investigation to reduce tendency to gain weight and maintain healthy eating habits. Also public educational program in healthy diet practices should be applied.