Eating habits of Gozitan university students living in Malta

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to identify the eating habits of Gozitan university students living in Malta. The study also investigates any difference between their eating patterns when they are in Malta during the week and when they are in Gozo for the weekend. Furthermore, it explores any gender difference when choosing and preparing what to eat. Data has been collected mainly from questionnaires distributed among Gozitan university students. As a follow-up to the main findings of the survey, a pilot presentation with freshmen Gozitan university students has been carried out with the aim of giving them information about a healthy diet together with some practical tips and suggestions on how to implement it. Overall, results obtained show that regardless of all the awareness about nutrition and health, many Gozitan students still do not follow a healthy diet. In fact, the findings are quite similar to Agius Fenech (2004), where foods found at the top of the food guide pyramid are commonly consumed. However, an increase in breakfast consumption and a shift to water and fruits have been observed in the present study. Students also tend to stop performing physical activity when they start attending university. Due to their unhealthy diet and physical inactivity, 43% gain weight during their university course. As regards to the food eaten in Malta and in Gozo, it has been found that the latter is healthier, fresher and even tastier. Furthermore, the findings indicate that gender plays a role when choosing and preparing food.