Social media usage influences dietary choices among university students at the Catholic university of Eastern Africa

Abstract

Background: Social media use is widespread among young adults, particularly university students, influencing various aspects of life including dietary choices. In Kenya, where youth comprise a significant population, exposure to misleading food trends and unhealthy content on platforms like Instagram and YouTube raises concern. Despite growing health risks such as obesity, little research has examined this influence locally. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate students aged 18-25 at The Catholic university of Eastern Africa, Nairobi. Using Fischer’s formula (1998), a sample size of 242 was determined and recruited through consecutive sampling. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS 21.0. The data was presented in tables and pie charts. Results: The study revealed that 64.4% of university students reported unhealthy dietary choices. Frequent fast-food consumption was also common, with 44.8% eating it three times weekly. However, no significant association was found between dietary choices and social media variables. Conclusions: This study revealed that the most students had unhealthy dietary choices (64.4%), no significant link was found with social media usage, indicating other influencing factors. Universities should promote nutrition education, and health authorities should partner with influencers to encourage healthy eating.