Trends in the use of non-nutritive sweeteners among female university students in the United Arab Emirates

Objective

This study aimed to explore the consumption patterns of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) among female university students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in the context of rising health awareness.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from February to April 2023 among female university students in the UAE. A total of 192 participants aged 18 and above were recruited through convenience sampling. A structured, self-administered online questionnaire was used to collect data on NNS consumption, motivations for use, physical activity, dietary habits, and self-reported height and weight. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated and categorized using the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Descriptive statistics and chi-squared tests were applied, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

Only 24 % of participants reported current consumption of artificially sweetened foods and beverages, while 15.1 % used sweeteners in pill or powder form. The most common reasons for using NNS were weight management and adopting a healthy diet. Among former users, taste preferences (23.9 %) and perceived health risks (13 %) were primary reasons for discontinuation. Significant associations were observed between NNS use and BMI, engagement in weight loss diets, and physical activity levels.

Conclusions

NNS consumption appears relatively low among female university students in the UAE, with health-driven motivations and sensory preferences shaping usage patterns. These findings highlight the need for targeted public health messaging and suggest potential shifts in dietary behavior among young women.