The primary aim of this study is to assess the dietary habits of Cypriot students and determine their adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) pattern. Furthermore, this study seeks to investigate the intake of dietary supplements, the frequency of ordering food and the overall quality of life among Cypriot students. The findings gained from this study can inform and guide relevant institutions in making necessary adjustments to promote the adherence to the MD among university students.
This was a cross-sectional study. This study was conducted between February 2023 and May 2023 using a convenience sampling. The questionnaire was created using the Google Forms tool and distributed online via social media platforms (e.g. Facebook and Instagram) and email lists of students from public and private universities and colleges in Cyprus. The sample size was calculated to be 400 individuals, assuming a 95% confidence interval with a precision of 5% and a hypothetical adherence rate to the MD of 50% (based on literature).
In a sample of 503 students, the authors reported that the mean age of the students was 23.2 ± 5.3 years, and the body mass index was 24.1 ± 5.7 kg/m2. It was identified that 45% of the sample demonstrated a high adherence to the MD. The Cypriot student population was found to consume substantial portions of poultry, red meat and its products, dairy products rich in fats, olive oil and a low consumption of whole grains, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, legumes and fish. This study revealed that increasing age was associated with greater adherence to the MD, while higher body mass index was associated with lower adherence to the MD. Furthermore, female students and those attending private universities exhibited a tendency towards higher adherence compared to their male counterparts and students from public universities, respectively. In conclusion, the dietary habits and lifestyle of the student population in Cyprus have improved in recent years; however, there remains a need for further improvement and compliance within the student community.
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study conducted among the Cypriot university student population investigating these factors after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study provides a substantial sample size of 503 participants across all five districts of Cyprus, which significantly enhances the reliability of the findings by minimizing potential sampling error. The distribution between the two types of universities from which the participants were drawn was nearly equal. Furthermore, the analysis of the questionnaire data was performed using the MedDietScore tool, recognized as a valid and reliable instrument for assessing adherence to the MD (Panagiotakos et al., 2006). The results of this study could serve as a valuable resource for relevant authorities to implement targeted interventions aimed at improving the dietary behaviours of Cypriot students. Specifically, the Ministry of Health of Cyprus, alongside various public health organizations could initiate awareness campaigns and educational seminars. These efforts would focus on informing the student population about the MD. In addition, the media and universities in Cyprus could play a crucial role by presenting the findings of this study as well as the benefits of MD to the health, the academic performance and mental well-being.
