Health Implications of Utilizing Non-Professional Dietary Information Sources among Civil Servants in Southeast Nigeria

Chiazor Anthonia Chiaghana, Walter C. Ihejirika and Virginia Benson Eluwa
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Chiazor Anthonia Chiaghana: Department of Mass Communication, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra state, Nigeria
Walter C. Ihejirika: Department of Mass Communication, University of Port Harcourt, River’s state, Nigeria
Virginia Benson Eluwa: Department of Mass Communication, Abia state university, Uturu, Abia statre, Nigeria

International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation, 2025, vol. 12, issue 5, 1291-1308

Abstract: Healthy habits play a fundamental role in enhancing longevity of life and prevention of non-communicable diseases and this raises concerns about the potential consequences of relying on non-professional information sources for dietary decision making particularly in a region like southeast Nigeria where diet related health issues are a growing concern. The overall objective of this study was to investigate the health implications of civil servants in Southeast Nigeria relying on non-professional dietary information sources such as social media, family, peers, and mass media for nutrition guidance. The specific objectives are: To identify the non-professional dietary information sources used by civil servants in southeast Nigeria, and to assess the health implications of relying on non-professional dietary information sources among civil servants in southeast Nigeria. Mixed method design such as survey and in-depth interview was used, data were collected from a representative sample size of 399 of civil servants across various ministries. The study was anchored on Social Cognitive Theory Findings from the study shows that a significant high level of the respondents uses the social media platforms to seek for dietary information from non-professional information sources also findings from the study revealed that majority of the civil servants have not experienced health issues due to non-professional dietary advice, while a substantial minority reported adverse effects. This highlights that although many civil servants appear resilient to potential risks, a significant subset of them may face health challenges tied to non-professional dietary guidance. The study however recommends Improve Access to Professional Dietary Information: Encourage Workplace Nutrition Support Systems, Regulate and Monitor Dietary Content on social media, Enhance Nutrition Literacy Programs among civil servants in the region.​

Date: 2025
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