Dietary Practices and Anthropometric Status of the Rural University Students in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Obesity among adolescents has increased over the past decades in most parts of the world in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to investigate the dietary practices and anthropometric status of the rural university students in Limpopo Province. A cross-sectional study was conducted among university students in Limpopo Province. A total of 363 students aged 18 to 42 years residing at the university residences were randomly selected. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Anthropometric measurements were conducted by a qualified biokinetist. Data were analysed using SPSS version 29. More than half (57.3%) of the students were females. About 42.1% reported that they consume fast food once per week. The prevalences of overweight and obesity were 21.8% and 7.5%, respectively. A chi-square analysis revealed a significant association between soft drinks, juice, and energised drink consumption frequency and BMI status ( p = 0.006). Results revealed a significant association between the frequency of eating processed food per week and the WHR status ( p = 0.013). Overweight and consuming fast food and sugary drinks are significant concerns amongst rural-based university students. The current study recommends that regular nutrition education campaigns be conducted at the university to encourage students to make healthier eating choices.