Introduction
Unhealthy eating habits are a growing concern in individuals that are making the transition to university. A recent survey found that 67 percent of students gained weight within the first few months of studying [ CITATION Mad14 l 2057 ]. During the transition it can be said that students are exposed to factors such as stress and no personal (free) time. It can be argued that these factors tend to stop students adopting healthy eating behaviours. Students often report that they are continuously up against aspects such as; self-discipline, taste preferences, time and convenience; as well as their social network influences, friends, peers and a lack of parental control. All of which can be said to influence their eating habits (Kapinos & Yakusheva, 2011).
Studies in America state that university is a crucial period for weight gain (Crombie et al, 2009). If during the transition, students fail to adequately adapt, it can have detrimental effects on their health and weight status (Von et al, 2004).
Early theories into healthy eating behaviours tend to focus on the individual. For example; Ajzen [CITATION Ajz85 n t l 2057 ] and his theory of planned behaviour, believes that behaviour can be explained through intention and these intentions are determined by attitudes on factors such as social norms and behavioural control. However, Bandura [CITATION Ban86 n t l 2057 ] and his social cognitive theory, looks at the relationships between personal, behavioural and social factors to explain eating behaviours.
Very few qualitative studies have looked into what shapes eating behaviours in university students. However, it can be reported that lack of time, discipline, social support, self-control, costs and limited budgets are all hugely important and influential factors when looking at these behaviours (Greaney et al, 2009). Furthermore, it can be suggested that the differences in lifestyles and environments over various culture...