Investigation of University Students' Attitudes Towards Healthy Eating in Terms of Some Variables

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the attitudes of undergraduate university students towards healthy nutrition. A descriptive survey model was employed in the research, and a total of 275 students, comprising 167 males and 108 females, who were continuing their education in undergraduate programs at Ordu University during the 2022-2023 academic year, were included in the study. As the data collection instrument, the 'Attitude Scale for Healthy Nutrition,' developed by TekkurşunDemir and Cicioğlu (2019), was used in the research. According to the results of the normality assumption, Student's T-test was utilized for pairwise comparisons, and One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's multiple comparison test were employed for multiple comparisons in the study. Significant differences were detected in the residence status variable of students in terms of the sub-dimensions of positive nutrition and malnutrition with the Attitude Scale for Healthy Nutrition (p<0,05). However, no significant differences were found in terms of gender regarding students' attitudes towards healthy nutrition and its sub-dimensions (p>0,05). Concerning physical activity, significant differences were observed in the sub-dimensions of information on nutrition, positive nutrition, and malnutrition with the Attitude Scale for Healthy Nutrition (p<0,05). Additionally, it was determined that students who lived with their families and engaged in sports had higher mean scores compared to others. Hence, living with family and regularly participating in exercise positively influenced students' attitudes towards healthy nutrition. In conclusion, organizing seminars and educational programs regarding healthy eating habits for students is of utmost importance.