What You Eat?: Socio-Cultural Accommodation of Fast Food and Health outcomes Among Youth Folks of a Muslim Society
Keywords:
Fast Food, University Students, Sociological Factors, Peer Influence, Health OutcomesAbstract
This study examines how sociological factors influence fast food consumption among university students and how these influences relate to student health outcomes. Key factors explored include family dining habits, peer pressure, social media exposure, psychological drivers, and economic accessibility. A survey-based quantitative design was used to collect data from university students about their eating behaviors and health status. The results show that fast-food eating is strongly shaped by social and cultural context rather than being a purely individual choice. Many students reported eating more fast food in the company of friends or due to peer encouragement, and family attitudes and practices also shaped their food preferences. Frequent fast-food consumption was associated with negative self-reported health outcomes such as weight gain, fatigue, and irregular eating habits. Social media trends and the easy availability of inexpensive fast food on and around campus further contributed to routine fast-food intake. These findings suggest that addressing fast-food overconsumption requires a holistic approach. Interventions should include peer-led health education, family involvement, and policies to improve healthy food access for students. Overall, the research underlines that food choices are embedded in social networks and cultural norms, implying that improving student nutrition and health will require collective efforts and supportive social environments.
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