The impact of meal patterns, food choices, and nutritional knowledge on academic performance among students at UiTM Permatang Pauh, Pulau Pinang

This study investigates the relationship between meal patterns, food choices, nutritional knowledge, and academic performance among Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Permatang Pauh students. A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted with 368 students using a structured questionnaire to assess dietary behaviours, while cumulative grade point average (CGPA) served as the academic performance indicator. Data were analysed with SPSS to examine relationships among the variables. Findings show that students who reported regular meal patterns, balanced food choices, and greater nutritional knowledge tended to achieve higher CGPAs. In contrast, irregular eating habits and poorer dietary practices were associated with lower academic performance. Effect sizes indicated that meal patterns and nutritional knowledge were stronger predictors of CGPA than food choices. As the study relied on a cross-sectional design and self-reported data, the results do not establish causality. Nonetheless, the findings highlight the importance of nutritional education and targeted dietary support within academic environments, contributing to ongoing research on the impact of dietary behaviours on student outcomes.