Evolution of adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (KidMed) of students of the University of Cordoba (Spain)

Background High adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (AMD) is inversely associated with chronic disease prevalence. However, rapid dietary shifts due to globalization pose a threat to these healthy habits. Aim This study evaluated the degree of AMD and its temporal evolution in students at the University of Cordoba (UCO), Spain. Methods A cross-sectional survey utilizing the validated 16-item KidMed questionnaire was administered to two representative student cohorts in November 2015 (n=412) and November 2018 (n=1087). Anthropometric data were collected, and a corrected Body Mass Index (cBMI) was developed using estimated apparent fat reserves (AFR). Parametric and non-parametric tests were used. Results The mean global KidMed score was 6.00 +/- 1.75, with 57.0% of students showing moderate AMD, 28.0% high, and 15.0% low, remaining stable between cohorts (p > 0.05). Underweight students exhibited significantly lower AMD compared to normal-weight peers (p < 0.01). AMD scores increased progressively as students advanced academically (1st/2nd year vs. 4th year+, p < 0.001) and were significantly higher in health-related degrees compared to other majors (6.28 vs. 5.97, p < 0.05). Conclusions While global AMD remains moderate, university progression and health-focused education positively influence dietary habits. Implementing targeted nutritional policies is crucial to counteract Westernized diet shifts and preserve the preventive benefits of the Mediterranean pattern.