Pages: (28-40 )
Abstract
Background: Obesity among university students is an escalating global public health concern, particularly in developing countries where nutrition transitions are leading to increased consumption of calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods. In Nigeria, limited data exist on the specific dietary behaviors contributing to obesity in university populations. This study was conducted to assess the dietary patterns of obese students at Babcock University, Ogun State, Nigeria, and to explore the relationship between nutritional knowledge, dietary behavior, and obesity. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was adopted. Data were collected from 256 students through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The instrument assessed socio-demographics, knowledge of dietary habits, anthropometric measurements, physical activity levels, and food consumption patterns. Results: Findings revealed that the majority of obese students exhibited unhealthy eating behaviors, characterized by frequent consumption of high-calorie meals, sugary drinks, and low intake of fruits and vegetables. Although no strong correlation was found between nutritional knowledge and obesity (r = 0.298, p < 0.005), a significant relationship emerged between dietary habits and obesity status (r = 0.309, p < 0.001), suggesting that behavior, more than knowledge alone, influences outcomes. Conclusion: This study underscores the urgent need for targeted university-based interventions, including the provision of healthy, affordable food options, regular nutrition education, and personalized counseling services. Promoting healthier dietary behaviors is essential to reducing obesity prevalence and improving the overall well-being of students.
Keywords: Obesity, Dietary habits, Patterns of dietary habits, Socio-demographic factors, Undergraduate students,