Meal choices, dietary habits, and timing patterns among young adults in Poland and Portugal: cross-sectional study

Background
Understanding the daily dietary choices of young adults is essential for promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing nutrition-related health issues, especially prevention of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Objectives
The objectives of the study were to identify health risks linked to the dietary habits and eating patterns of young adults and to develop evidence-based recommendations aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles.

Material and methods
This study examines Polish and Portuguese young adults and investigates the factors influencing their dietary patterns, meal timing, and food choices. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 448 participants, 18–30 years of age, of Polish or Portuguese nationality. A questionnaire collected quantitative data.

Results
The findings revealed a variety of food choices influenced by cultural, social, and economic factors. The most consumed meals among Polish and Portuguese young adults were lunch (78.9% daily) and dinner (77% daily), while second breakfast (18.2%) and late-night snacks (7.8%) were the least consumed. No significant differences were observed between the two populations regarding meal frequency and hours of main meals. The study showed too low consumption of fruits and vegetables, especially in Portuguese young adults, and alarming trends in the consumption of high processed meat and pre-made meals.

Conclusions
A consistent meal schedule, including breakfast consumption and morning-loading energy intake, together with reduced snacking frequency and night fasting, should be promoted. Action is needed to stop the growing incidence of obesity, CVDs, and MetS in the study population. Further research should investigate the specific aspects to improve health promotion strategies directed to young adults in both countries.