Examining the correlates of food habits among adolescents in Zimbabwe: A cross-sectional study

Good eating habits are essential for proper growth and development. The aim of this study was to assess the correlates of eating habits and factors associated with poor food habits among in-school adolescents.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 adolescents enrolled from 10 high schools in Harare, Zimbabwe. A questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data, food habits, nutrition knowledge, and physical activity. WHO AnthroPlus was used to calculate weight-for-height z-scores for body mass index values. Pearson’s Chi-square and multinomial logistic regression were used to test for associations and explore factors associated with poor food habits.

There were more girls (n = 225, 53.2%) than boys. Poor food habits were more prevalent than healthy eating habits for both sexes and in the 14–16-year-old. Overall, poor food habits were observed across the nutrition status spectrum with a higher percentage among underweight adolescents. Significant associations were found between age groups and high fat consumption, especially among 14–16-year-olds. Overall, sugar consumption was high among girls and 14–16-year-olds, and skipping meals, especially breakfast, was also common among the same sex and age groups. Poor food habits were significantly associated with the age group of 14–16 years; places of residence in particularly high-density areas; inadequate physical activity; and inadequate nutrition knowledge.

Food habits were poor across the nutrition status spectrum. Poor food habits were more common among girls and 14–16-year-olds. Age, place of residence, nutrition knowledge, and inadequate physical activity were factors significantly associated with poor food habits.

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