Author(s): Supriya Pathak and Akriti Mishra

Abstract:
Nutrition awareness among youth is a critical determinant of future public health, as lifestyle-related disorders such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases are increasingly prevalent. Academic exposure plays a significant role in shaping students’ understanding of nutrition and diet-related practices. The present study aimed to compare nutrition awareness among undergraduate students enrolled in different academic streams: Home Science, Science without Home Science, and Arts without Home Science. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 150 undergraduate students, with 50 participants from each stream, using a structured questionnaire that assessed demographic details, nutrition knowledge, awareness, and dietary practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including ANOVA and chi-square tests. The findings revealed significant differences in nutrition awareness across academic backgrounds. Home Science students demonstrated the highest awareness, particularly regarding nutrient functions, balanced diet principles, and links between diet and health. Science students without Home Science exposure showed moderate awareness, primarily in biological and health-related contexts, but lacked applied knowledge of diet planning. Arts students exhibited the lowest awareness, with widespread misconceptions about calorie needs, processed foods, and diet-disease relationships. The study concludes that integrating basic nutrition education across all academic streams is essential to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the burden of diet-related diseases.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.22271/23957476.2025.v11.i3d.2003