EATING BEHAVIOUR OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN UKRAINE

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Public Health
• International Student Health

Background:

• Understanding the dietary patterns of international students is crucial for promoting health and well-being in diverse academic settings.
• Limited research exists on the specific eating behaviors of international students in Ukraine.
• Dietary acculturation and environmental factors can significantly influence the nutritional intake of mobile populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the eating behavior of international students residing in Ukraine.
• To assess the quality of their diet, including fruit, vegetable, and protein consumption.
• To identify perceived changes in diet and barriers to healthy eating since their arrival.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted with 193 international students (18-36 years old) from 11 nationalities.
• Participants completed a questionnaire on their diet over the past 7 days, dietary changes, healthy eating knowledge, and perceived barriers.
• Data were collected from students enrolled in 12 Ukrainian tertiary institutions.

Main Results:

• 75.1% of students consumed fruits daily, and 73.1% consumed vegetables daily.
• Poultry and fish were consumed more frequently than beef and pork; over half consumed starchy foods daily.
• 95% reported dietary changes post-arrival; alcohol consumption was low (7.3% daily). Gender influenced intake of alcohol, dairy, and certain meats.

Conclusions:

• International students in Ukraine demonstrate favorable dietary habits, including high fruit and vegetable intake.
• Lean meats and fish are preferred over red meats, with a higher intake of unsaturated fats.
• Low consumption of sugary drinks and alcohol characterizes their dietary behavior, though dietary changes are common upon arrival.