Dietary habits of adult residents of Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The food consumption habit of an individual or a group is an important factor in determining the nutritional status and overall health of the individual or group.  

Objective: The study was conducted to determine the dietary habits of adults residing in Calabar Metropolis.

Methodology: The WHO standard questionnaire on dietary assessment and related surveys was used to collect data on the dietary habits of adults within the age bracket of 20 – 70 years. The study sampled 500 respondents utilizing a multistage sampling technique. Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 22.0 was used for data analysis.

Results: There were more females (54.0%) than males (46.0 %) in the study. Majority (89.2%) of the population were young and middle-aged adults (20-59 years). It was found that 39.4% of the respondents went to work or market with meals prepared at home; proportion (44.2%) of those who went to work or market with meals prepared at home did that occasionally. Remarkable proportions (31.4%) and (22.3%) of the respondents respectively consumed snacks and sweetened beverages 3-7 times weekly, whereas 94% skipped one or more meals per day. About ninety-seven percent (96.8%) of the respondents consumed foods very rich in oil/fat, spices/beverages had 100% consumption; even though vegetable consumption was high (94.8%), fruit consumption was relatively low (27.8%).

Conclusion: The dietary habits of the population tilt towards an unhealthy end, calling for actions by the nutrition stakeholders to create more awareness in the study area, encouraging the individuals to make healthy food choices.