1Laboratory of Natural Resources and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Science, Ibn Tofail University, Morocco
2Laboratory of Plants, Animals Productions and Agro-Industry, Faculty of Science, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco
3Laboratory of Health Sciences and Technologies, Department of Science, Higher Institute of Health Sciences, Hassan First University, Settat, Morocco
*Corresponding Author: Hefdhallah Alaizari, Laboratory of Natural Resources and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Science, Ibn Tofail University, Morocco, Email: alaizari2@gmail.com
Online published on 30 October, 2025.
A healthy and varied diet plays a fundamental role in supporting balanced physical development, maintaining overall health, and mitigating the risk of chronic diseases. Understanding dietary habits is essential for designing effective interventions and promoting nutritional well-being. This study investigates the dietary habits of individuals in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region, with a focus on sociodemographic and anthropometric characteristics, meal consumption patterns and food choices. The findings aim to highlight gender-specific trends and general dietary behaviors within the population.
A prospective cross-sectional observational study design was employed to evaluate dietary habits. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire in two phases: the first phase focused on sociodemographic and anthropometric information, while the second captured detailed dietary habits. A total of 1,012 participants were recruited, comprising 60.4% females and 39.6% males. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software (version 22) and Chi-square tests were applied to identify significant relationships between variables. Body Mass Index (BMI) categories were calculated and dietary habits were analyzed by gender.
The study population was predominantly female (60.4%) and included a higher proportion of younger individuals, with 45.4% aged 18-30 years. Most participants (85.9%) had university-level education and civil servants represented the largest professional group (52.9%). Females were overrepresented among unemployed participants, while married individuals comprised the majority (54.8%) of family statuses. BMI analysis indicated that overweight and obesity were more prevalent among females, whereas males dominated the underweight category (p = 0.0005). Regarding dietary habits, 53.6% of participants consumed four meals daily, with 80.7% consuming bread and pastries daily and 60.2% consuming fruits and vegetables 4-5 times weekly. Frequent consumption of meat and poultry was observed, with females showing higher intake levels. No significant gender differences were found in fish/seafood, cereals, or dairy product consumption and snack and sweet product consumption patterns were consistent across genders.
Body mass index (BMI), Dietary habits, Gender differences, Rabat-salé-kénitra region, Sociodemographic characteristics
