Author(s) :

Onaibre Treasure.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Abstract This study investigated the prevalence and determinants of dietary habits among undergraduates in Delta State, Nigeria, with a focus on developing interventions for weight management. The study aimed to explore the dietary behaviors, health challenges, and the nutritional value of locally developed diets. Four research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. The research adopted a survey and experimental design, involving a population of 89 overweight undergraduates and 950 health and nutrition professionals. The sampling techniques included non-proportionate random sampling and purposive sampling, leading to the selection of 72 students, 275 professionals, and 12 Wistar rats for experimental purposes. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, a 9-point hedonic scale, and the AOAC (2019) handbook for nutritional analysis. Two diets, Pota Snack (PS) and Unripe Plantain Pottage (UPP), were developed and analyzed. The findings revealed that 77.7% of the respondents relied on fast foods, while only 22.3% prepared their own meals. Additionally, 65.3% and 56.9% of the students did not consume vegetables and fruits daily, respectively. The main determinants of dietary habits included income size (mean = 2.91) and access to food (mean = 2.86). Health challenges linked to poor dietary habits included overweight (mean = 2.92), learning problems (mean = 2.81), and memory issues (mean = 2.96). Nutritional analysis showed that PS had a moisture content of 25.97%, crude protein of 3.70%, and carbohydrates of 68.48%, while UPP had 49.85%, 14.20%, and 30.23%, respectively. Mineral and vitamin contents were also analyzed, showing adequate levels for weight management. The study concluded that poor dietary habits are prevalent among undergraduates in Delta State, and interventions such as promoting healthy snacking and nutrition education are necessary. It was recommended that nutrition counseling be integrated into university programs to enhance students' awareness of healthy eating habits. Keywords: Dietary habits, overweight, undergraduates, Delta State, nutrition, Pota Snack, Unripe Plantain Pottage, weight management.

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