Lots of people start living on their own in their student years, and that's when some new eating habits are usually formed.
A new study claims that people who have unhealthy eating patterns and habits tend to have more eating disorders later in life.
Let's find out more.
It doesn't just stop after college
Unhealthy eating habits during university years can lead to long-term health issues like obesity, respiratory illnesses, and depression, warn UBC Okanagan researchers.
A study involving 12,000 Chinese medical students found that high-calorie meals and sugary foods were common, contributing to obesity.
These habits can persist for decades.
It's not only about eating
The study also showed a link between poor diets, obesity, and respiratory illnesses.
Obesity increases vulnerability to infectious diseases like COVID-19.
How we can fix it
Universities should provide healthy and affordable food options to address this risk pattern.
Initiatives like low-barrier food banks and rearranging vending machines can promote healthier choices.
Continued efforts are necessary to support students' long-term health.