Factors Affecting Food Intake among Male College Students in Kenyatta University, Nairobi County

Abstract

Many lifestyle habits are formed in College and may persist into adulthood, thereby impacting on the health of students. Several studies have reported unhealthy dietary practices with high consumption of fast foods having high contents of fat, salt and simple sugars among college students. This study investigated factors affecting food intake in male college students at Kenyatta University, Kenya. The aim of the study was to determine socio-demographic and economic characteristics of the students as well as factors affecting food intake including cost of food, time, residence on campus and peer influence. The study employed a case study design. Study participants included male students, aged 19-25 years. Study instruments included questionnaire and interview. Results showed that cost of food and preparation time were the main factors affecting food intake. Students reported to frequently consume high amounts of refined carbohydrates for satiety and low amounts of fruits and vegetables which are more expensive. The most frequently consumed foods reported to be consumed every day were carbohydrates. Only 33.3% of students reported taking fruits every day while 53.3 % reported consuming vegetables daily. Skipping of meals was also reported and could be associated with factors such as residing off-campus and food preparation time constraints. It is recommended that Universities come up with measures to curb unhealthy eating habits on campus by availing more balance foods on campus cafeteria.