Hindrances and Enablers of Healthy Eating Behavior Among College Students in an HBCU: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Research indicates widespread unhealthy eating habits among college students, posing long-term health risks. This study at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) aimed to explore the perceived obstacles and facilitators to healthy eating among college students, using the social ecological model (SEM). Through focus group discussions and key informant interviews, the study identified several barriers to healthy eating, including challenges in accessing federal food assistance resources, gaps in nutrition knowledge, cost concerns, limited food variety on campus, difficulty accessing grocery stores, and a lack of cooking skills. To address these barriers, participants suggested various solutions, such as implementing cooking demonstrations, providing nutrition education, increasing food variety on campus, offering gardening opportunities, adjusting cafeteria hours for more flexibility, making fresh produce more available on campus, assisting students in accessing federal food assistance programs, and providing transportation to nearby grocery stores. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to promote healthier dietary behaviors among college students, particularly those attending HBCUs. By addressing the identified barriers and implementing the suggested solutions, initiatives can be developed to support students in making healthier food choices, ultimately reducing long-term health risks associated with unhealthy eating habits.