Snacking habits and study duration on academic performance among student nurses in a private university in Iloilo City

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between snacking habits, study duration, and academic performance among student nurses at a private university in Iloilo City. A descriptive-correlational design was employed, involving 143 third-year student nurses selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using an online questionnaire assessing demographic profiles, snacking habits, study duration, and academic performance. Questionnaires were disseminated online, and responses underwent data cleaning and coding before statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, while Spearman’s rho correlation analysis determined relationships among variables. Findings showed that (47.6%) of respondents frequently snacked while studying, with chips (75.5%), nuts (65%), and coffee (60.1%) being the most consumed, while nutrient-dense options such as vegetables (8.4%) and yogurt (11.9%) were less preferred. Students who "always" snacked were more likely (57.1%) to study for over four hours, while those who snacked "rarely" or "sometimes" studied for shorter durations. Significant correlations were found between snacking habits and study duration (Spearman’s rho = 0.766, p = 0.000) and study duration and academic performance (Spearman’s rho = 0.731, p = 0.000). The study concludes that snacking contributes to prolonged study duration, supporting higher academic performance. However, the preference for less nutritious snacks highlights the need to promote healthier dietary choices among student nurses.