Natureza à mesa: padrões alimentares de universitários em contextos urbanos e rurais

Abstract

Human dietary habits are influenced by multiple factors, including environmental, socioeconomic, and cultural aspects. Among these, the relationship with nature has been identified as a relevant factor in the adoption of healthy eating habits, as it promotes well-being and, consequently, encourages more balanced choices. However, empirical studies that comprehensively investigate how connection with the natural environment and the perception of nearby green areas directly affect dietary patterns are still scarce, especially in the Brazilian university context. In this regard, the present study analyzed the eating habits of university students in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, divided into two groups based on the location of their higher education institution (rural or urban), with the aim of understanding how the relationship with nature influences dietary patterns. The study adopted a quasi-experimental, cross-sectional design, with data collected online via Google Forms. Participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Diet Quality Scale (ESQUADA)—an instrument that assesses dietary adequacy based on healthy and unhealthy food markers—the Nature Relatedness Scale (NR)—which measures individuals' emotional, cognitive, and experiential connection with nature—and a Green Area Perception Questionnaire (PAV), developed specifically for this study to capture participants’ subjective perception of the presence and importance of green areas in their daily lives. The results showed that, in both groups (rural and urban), eating habits were generally rated as good, nature relatedness was moderately high, and green area perception was elevated, with no significant differences between the groups. However, the NR was found to be a significant predictor of healthier eating practices, reinforcing the idea that a stronger connection with the natural environment fosters more positive dietary choices. The PAV was also associated with diet quality, suggesting that the proximity to and appreciation of green areas influence eating behavior. Furthermore, per capita income was positively associated with diet quality, indicating the role of socioeconomic status in university students' eating patterns. These findings highlight the relevance of the natural environment as a determining factor in shaping eating habits and provide support for public policies that encourage contact with nature as a means to promote nutritional health and overall well-being.