Eating behavior in dentistry students of the Universidad Regional Autónoma de los Andes" Uniandes", Ambato campus

Eating habits have a crucial role in the health and academic performance of college students. During university, eating patterns can be influenced by a variety of factors, including lifestyle changes and academic pressures. The study used a validated survey to assess food choices, meal preparation and other eating habits, where the results indicate that many students exhibit unhealthy eating behaviors, mainly related to food choices, food preparation and other eating habits. It was also found that students have difficulties in maintaining a varied and balanced diet. It was also determined that there is a correlation between gender and eating habits, i.e. women tended to have less healthy eating habits than men. Concluding that factors such as lack of time, stress, lack of information and access to healthy foods contribute to the adoption of unhealthy eating habits among university students