Food Habits And Portion Size Awareness: A Logistic Regression Study

Abstract

This study examines dietary habits and portion size awareness among school students, college students, and lecturers using a cross-sectional survey design. A structured questionnaire was administered to 200 participants, divided into six demographic groups (male and female school students, male and female college students, and male and female lecturers). Binary logistic regression was employed to determine the key factors influencing portion size awareness. The study identifies significant predictors, including breakfast consumption, snacking frequency, fast food intake, and sweetened drink consumption. Results show that individuals who consume breakfast daily are 3.6 times more likely to be aware of portion sizes, whereas frequent snacking, fast food intake, and sugary drink consumption are associated with reduced awareness. The respondents who take breakfast regularly, and at the same time consume fast food, drink sweetened drinks, and frequently snack, will have only a 10.4% chance of having awareness about portion size. The respondents who take breakfast regularly and do not consume fast food, sweetened drinks, or have frequent snacks will have a 62% chance of having awareness about portion size.  Findings highlight the need for nutrition education programs in schools and colleges, promoting healthy eating habits and portion control. The study suggests reducing fast food consumption and encouraging home-cooked meals to improve dietary awareness. These insights contribute to the development of targeted health promotion strategies to enhance portion size awareness and overall dietary behaviour.