Mediterranean diet adherence, self-rated health, body mass index, and unhealthy alcohol use in Italian university students: A cross-sectional study
Keywords:
Mediterranean Diet, Self-Rated Health, Body Mass Index, Alcohol Consumption, University Students, Digital Food EnvironmentAbstract
Background: University students are at increased risk for unhealthy behaviours, including poor diet and hazardous alcohol use. Mediterranean Diet (MD) adherence has been linked to favourable health outcomes, but evidence in young adults is scarce.
This study examined associations between MD adherence, self-rated health (SRH), body mass index (BMI), and alcohol-related risk in Italian university students, considering also food delivery app use.
Methods A cross-sectional study was con-ducted among 2,697 students at the University of Milan. MD adherence was assessed with the validated Medi-Lite questionnaire, SRH with a single-item indicator, BMI from self-reported data, and alcohol-related risk with the AUDIT-C. Multivariable logistic and multinomial regression models were applied.
Results: High MD adherence (≥12 score) was associated with higher odds of good SRH (aOR = 3.16, 95% CI = 1.23–8.11) and lower odds of overweight/obesity (aOR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.52–0.85), with no significant association with alcohol risk. Greater consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereals, and olive oil predicted better SRH and lower BMI. Food delivery app use was associated with overweight/obesity and alcohol risk.
Discussion: Higher MD adherence is linked to improved perceived health and healthier weight status among university students. Public health strategies should promote MD and address digital food environments.
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