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Comparing Eating Habits among Biomedical and Non-Biomedical University Students: A Study of Lifestyle Influences
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Nasrin Daranizad    , Haleh Esmaili , Zeinab Abbasi Senjedary * , Mozhgan Hafizi Moori , Seyedeh Vahideh Pishvae |
| Department of Midwifery, TeMS.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran , zabasi@iautmu.ac.ir |
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Abstract: (367 Views) |
Background and Aim: Eating habits are crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of university students. This study aimed to compare the eating habits of biomedical and non-biomedical students at Azad medical University in Tehran, Iran.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive-comparative study was conducted on 400 undergraduate students aged 18 to 26 years, who were studying biomedical and non-biomedical programs. Stratified random sampling was used for selecting the participants. Data were collected through self-reporting questionnaires, including a demographic questionnaire, lifestyle and the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ).
Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was significantly higher among biomedical students (30.9%) compared to non-biomedical students (25.4%), (p =.014). Biomedical students reported higher consumption of rice (46.1% vs. 41.3%; p=.047), and bread (73.8% vs. 63.8%; p=.001), whereas 54.1% of non-biomedical students reported eating more sweet snacks daily. Also, non-biomedical students consumed fewer daily fruits compared Biomedical students (19.5% vs. 24.1%; p=.03) and also red and white meat (3.3% vs. 4.7%; p=.04) respectively. Both Groups of students were interested in drinking higher soft sugary drinks (38.4% and 39.8%; p = 0.001) respectively, while they ate fish never or less than once per month.
Conclusion: Despite their academic background, biomedical students exhibited higher rates of overweight. Non-biomedical students consumed more unhealthy snacks and fewer nutrient-dense foods. These findings highlight the need for more nutritional education in all students to promote healthier eating habits among them.
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| Keywords: Eating habits, socio-demographic factors, lifestyle. |
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Full-Text [PDF 384 kb]
(155 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2025/09/17 | Accepted: 2024/03/20 | Published: 2024/03/20
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