OPENNESS PERSONALITY TRAIT AS A PROTECTIVE FACTOR FOR CONSUMPTION OF ULTRA PROCESSED FOOD: INSIGHTS FROM VARSITY CRICKET ATHLETES AND NON-ATHLETES’ UNIVERSITY STUDENTS.

Abstract

In this study, we looked at the Big Five personality traits, especially openness. The goal of this study was to see if these traits predict UPF intake among varsity cricket players vs non-athlete students. Data was collected form 351 participants. 173 were cricket players (Mean age = 20.42 years, SD = 1.846). The other 178 students were not athletes (Mean age = 20.78 years, SD = 1.679).  a cross-sectional study design was used. Participants filled out their basic info, the Big Five Inventory, and a questionnaire on eating processed foods. We analyzed the data using Hierarchical regression test. The results showed that only openness was significant predictor of ultra processed food consumption in both groups. Students with higher openness ate less ultra processed food. Overall, the study suggests that openness consistently protects against ultra processed food consumption. These findings highlight the importance of Personality traits particularly openness while designing plan to reduce ultra processed food intake to promote healthier eating habits in young adults.