Empty calories: Awareness (knowledge), attitude, and practice of some university students in Sokoto, Nigeria
Keywords:
Empty calories, beverages, fast foods, junk foods, university, students, diabetes, awarenessAbstract
This study examines the awareness, attitudes, and consumption of empty calories (ECs) among undergraduate university students in Sokoto, Nigeria. The results show that majority of respondents (91.8%) were aware of ECs and could list examples, with school (60.0%) and media (23.6%) being the primary sources of awareness. However, most respondents (80.0%) believed ECs are healthy, but 20.0% believed they are only needed moderately. Taste (60.0%) and ease of consumption (20.0%) were the primary reasons for consuming ECs. Few respondents (20.0%) believed ECs are harmful, while majority (80.0%) believed they are not harmful. Most respondents (60.0%) consumed ECs seriously, while 40.0% consumed them less frequently. The study highlights the need for education and awareness programs to control ECs consumption among undergraduate university students in Sokoto, Nigeria. Education and awareness programs, laws and policies, and provision of organic foods are recommended as strategies to control ECs consumption.
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