College women’s dietary preferences and their effect on health and socio-economics factors in Kerala

Abstract

Eating behaviour encompasses attitudes, thoughts, emotional patterns, and habits related to food. These behaviours are influenced by regional geography, cultural practices, socio-economic background, and global exposure. People often eat not only to satisfy hunger or nutritional requirements but also for emotional and habitual reasons. This study seeks to explore the influence of eating attitudes on body mass index (BMI) among women from Southern, Central, and Northern Kerala. The research also aims to highlight the importance of enhancing nutritional awareness and improving dietary patterns for better health outcomes.