Current Research in Nutrition and Food Science - An open access, peer reviewed international journal covering all aspects of Nutrition and Food Science

Differences in Food Consumption Frequencies and Perceived Lifestyle Behaviors by Accommodation Environment and Gender Among Omani University Students: A Pilot Study

Nasiruddin Khan^1*, Said Al-Ghenaimi¹, Mostafa Ibrahim Waly²and Ayat Abdullah Zawateieh¹

¹Department of Health Sciences, College of Applied and Health Sciences, A’Sharqiyah University, Ibra, Oman

²Food Science and Nutrition Department, College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman

Corresponding Author E-mail:knasiruddin@asu.edu.om

This study aimed to examine the variations in food consumption frequency and perceived lifestyle behaviors based on gender and living arrangements. A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out from August 2022 to September 2023, including 176 participants from various colleges at A’Sharqiyah University in Oman. Data were collected using a self-administered electronic questionnaire. A notably high percentage of students residing with their families indicated a significant variation in the frequency of consumption of carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, lettuce, onions, tomatoes, and dates, with respective p-values of 0.002, 0.028, 0.016, 0.048, 0.025, 0.003, and 0.001. Increased consumption of canned tuna, whole milk, milk chocolate, chicken, and falafel sandwiches (P=0.051, 0.006, 0.011, 0.007, and 0.050, respectively) was noted among students residing away from their families. Consumption of fruits such as dates, melon, and oranges were higher among males (53.6, 17.9, and 25%, p=0.016, 0.013, and 0.050, respectively). The majority of males exhibited a greater consumption of Omani coffee, as well as sweet and traditional dishes. Among students residing with their families, a significant proportion reported a sleep duration of 7 to 8 hours per day, accounting for 75% of the respondents (p=0.029). Students living independently reported perceived unhealthy dietary habits (41.7%, P=0.007) along with a decreased frequency of consuming home-cooked meals (35%, P=0.001). Females demonstrated commendable study habits, with 23.6% dedicating more than four hours per day to their studies (P=0.002). In contrast, male students reported a higher frequency of dining out, with 46.4% dining out three to six times per week compared to 20.3% of female students (P=0.012). A significant majority of the study participants (86.9%, P=0.023) were not utilizing any dietary supplements. In general, students who resided independently, without family, exhibited a greater tendency to engage in less healthy food choices and lifestyle behaviors.

Accommodation; Food consumption; Gender; Lifestyle; Oman

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