Generalizability and Consistency of Derived Dietary Patterns across Gender and Residence Subgroups among University Students, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Numerous studies have been reported dietary patterns among university students, however specific research on generalizability and consistency of dietary patterns across student subgroups is limited. Aim: Study aimed to explore empirically dietary patterns and to assess the generalizability and consistency of the explored dietary patterns across subgroups of gender and residence among university students. Methods: Cross-sectional study between 2023 and 2024 conducted among undergraduate students at College of Nursing and Health Sciences. In total 650 (Boys:350, Girls:300) students dietary intake collected using food frequency questionnaire. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis used to explore the dietary patterns. Congruence coefficient was used to assess the generalizability and consistency of the factors between subgroups of gender and residence. Results: Identified four optimal dietary patterns. Western foods pattern-salty snacks/chips, fried foods, cake/biscuits/sweets, soda drinks, pastries/pizza and drinks/juices. Traditional foods pattern-breakfast/seeds, meats/chicken, rice/pasta/potatoes, traditional foods, milk/milk products and egg. Protein foods pattern-processed meat and fish/seafoods. Lastly prudent foods pattern-fruits, nuts, vegetables and legumes. Conclusions: Empirically explored dietary patterns were generalizable and consistent across subgroups of gender and residence. Further, research with longitudinal setting is required to assess the relationships between dietary habits and chronic diseases.