Breakfast consumption patterns and psychological well-being among college students in Coimbatore: A cross-sectional study

Breakfast is regarded as the most important meal of the day, playing a crucial role in cognitive function, academic performance, and overall well-being. However, breakfast skipping has become increasingly common among college students, often due to time constraints, lifestyle choices, and dietary preferences. This study aims to examine breakfast consumption patterns among college students in Coimbatore, assess their food preferences, and analyze the psychological distress associated with skipping breakfast. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 346 college students, including undergraduates, postgraduates, and research scholars. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire comprising demographic information, breakfast consumption habits, and psychological assessment using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). The results indicated that 86% of students consumed breakfast on the survey day, while 14% skipped it. The primary reasons for skipping breakfast were lack of time (42%), lack of hunger (14%), and food preferences (12%). Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between breakfast skipping and depression severity (F = 4.52, p = 0.034). A moderate negative correlation (r = -0.42, p = 0.002) was observed between regular breakfast consumption and depression scores, suggesting a protective effect of breakfast against psychological distress. Logistic regression analysis indicated that students who regularly consumed breakfast were 62% less likely to experience moderate to severe depression (OR = 0.38, p = 0.012). These findings underscore the importance of promoting regular breakfast consumption through awareness programs, nutritional education, and time management strategies to enhance both physical and mental well-being among college students.