Determinants Affecting Food Choices and Meal Patterns among Students

Author(s) : Shahnai Basharat, Syed Amir Gilani, Sanabil Anmol, Armeen Riaz, Fizza Ali Khan, Rimsha Akhter & Ameer Hamza

Abstract:

A comprehensive body of evidence now exists concerning the protective effect of healthy eating habits and food choices against a number of chronic diseases particularly diabetes, cancer and stress. In the main body of the review, the factors that affect food choice decisions of university students in relation to healthy eating habits are studied. Determinants covered included; socio- demographic, breakfast skipping, availability of food, media advertisings, fast-food consumption, family choices, stress and poor meal patterns. The content of review showed that poor food choices are leading towards chronic diseases. The purpose of this review is to highlight the determinants affecting food choices and eating patterns of students by showing the association with chronic diseases and poor health status.

Key Words: Food Choices, Meal Patterns, Diabetes, Cancer, Psychological Stress, Breakfast Consumption