Balancing Act: Exploring the Interplay Between Lifestyle Habits and Nutritional Status Among University Students. A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background In the contemporary world, higher education plays a pivotal role in achieving academic success and fostering personal growth. Students often adopt lifelong habits that significantly impact their well-being during this period. Notably, factors such as diet, sleep, physical activity, and substance use have gained prominence due to their association with the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases among young adults. Characterising these habits has become a crucial focus for research, particularly in primary prevention efforts against lifestyle diseases. This study aims to scrutinize the lifestyle habits of undergraduate students at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, Kenya. Methods This research utilized a cross-sectional analytical study design and took place at the Kenyatta University Main Campus in Nairobi County. The target population comprised undergraduate students. Employing a multistage stratified sampling method, 260 students were selected as the sample for the study. A structured questionnaire, pretested on 10% of the sample, was employed to gather socio-demographic, dietary, and lifestyle data. Statistical analysis involving categorising eating habits and physical activity levels was carried out using SPSS version 24. Results The study encompassed a predominantly young demographic, with 85.1% falling within the 18–24 age range, displaying diversity, with 39% being male. Residences varied, with 51% residing off-campus and 25.3% in university hostels. A significant proportion (69.5%) took charge of meal preparation. Regarding eating habits, the majority (79.9%) demonstrated neutral habits, 12% adhered to healthy practices, and 8.0% exhibited unhealthy ones. Physical inactivity prevailed at 75.9%, with 67.1% engaging in walking activities for ≤ 100 minutes daily. Smoking rates were low (2.4% active, 2% former), predominantly observed among males. Optimal sleep duration (7–8 hours) was achieved by 56.6%, and alcohol use was reported by 31.3%, with 26.9% participating in binge drinking. Conclusions Tobacco use was minimal, consistent with the global trend of decreasing prevalence. Physical inactivity was widespread, exacerbated by a sedentary lifestyle, particularly among females. Excessive alcohol intake was more prevalent among males. On a positive note, more than half of the respondents met the recommended sleep duration, with sleep deprivation being more common among males than females.