Published Article

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the influence of frequently consumed DASH diets and Mediterranean-style diets on chronic disease prevention among students in higher institutions in Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District. The study was guided by two specific objectives, which were to determine the influence of frequently consumed DASH diets and Mediterranean-style diets on chronic disease prevention among students. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. The total population used for the study was all higher institution students currently attending school in the Senatorial District, but a sample size of 600 respondents were drawn for the study using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. A researcher-developed questionnaire titled “Dietary Patterns and Chronic Diseases Prevention Questionnaire (DPCDPQ)” was used for data collection. Of the 600 questionnaire forms administered, 594 were correctly filled and returned. Simple Linear Regression was used to answer the research questions and Simple Linear Regression and one t-test were used to test the hypotheses at .05 level of significance. Based on the findings, the study concluded that poor adherence to healthy dietary patterns among students may increase their risk of developing chronic diseases later in life. One of the recommendations made was that higher institutions, health educators, parents, and government agencies should intensify nutrition education and promote healthy eating habits among students to enhance chronic disease prevention.