Obesity and Eating Habits of Undergraduate Female Nursing Students at Hail University, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Overweight and obesity are due to eating habits. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity in a sample of undergraduate nursing students at the University of Hail and to examine their eating habits. Methods: Cross sectional study design was used among female undergraduate nursing students. A valid and reliable questionnaire regarding food habits was used. SPSS version 23 was used for statistical analysis. Results: The prevalence of overweight and obesity based on body mass index presented, our study revealed that, there were underweight (29.9%), normal weight (23.4%), over weight (26.9%) and (19.8%) were obese. Regarding to eating habits, (46.7%) taking meals irregularly. In addition (14.7 %) taking breakfast rarely. Moreover, (35 %) eating meals except meals for two times. Also, (43.1%) taking snacks apart from regular meals daily. In addition to that, (18.3%) eating green, red or yellow colored vegetables rarely. According to the eating fruits, daily (25.4%), Three or four times per week (24.4%), Once or twice per week (32%) and (18.3%) rarely, (35.5%) eating fried food daily, (54.3%) eating food with family and friends, (34.5%) drinking soft drinks. Conclusion: We should focus on health education and stay away from ready-made foods and reduce fried food and focus on healthy eating in order to reduce overweight and obesity, as it is necessary to follow intervention strategies In order to improve eating habits.