Dietary Patterns, Diversity, and Nutritional Status of Undergraduate Students in Nigeria: Evidence from Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State

Abstract

Unhealthy dietary habits among university students represent a growing public health concern, contributing to both undernutrition and rising cases of overweight and obesity. This study evaluated the dietary patterns, dietary diversity, and associated factors influencing the nutritional status of undergraduate students in Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A repeated cross-sectional survey in which data was collected at two different point in time.it was conducted using a structured questionnaire to collect data on food consumption, dietary practices, and socio-demographic factors. Anthropometric measurements were taken to assess nutritional status using Body Mass Index (BMI) classification. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential methods to establish associations between dietary patterns, diversity, and nutritional outcomes. The findings revealed suboptimal dietary practices, characterized by frequent meal skipping, high consumption of energy-dense foods, and low intake of fruits and vegetables. Dietary diversity scores were generally inadequate, reflecting poor micronutrient-rich food consumption. Prevalence of malnutrition was evident, with significant proportions of students classified as underweight, overweight, or obese, highlighting the double burden of malnutrition within the study population. Socioeconomic factors, lifestyle practices, and food availability were key determinants of dietary behaviour and nutritional outcomes. The study concludes that undergraduate students face significant nutritional challenges arising from poor dietary patterns and limited dietary diversity. It recommends targeted nutrition interventions, awareness programs, and policy measures within tertiary institutions to promote healthier dietary practices and improve the overall nutritional well-being of students.