ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE ON THE CONSUMPTION OF WHOLE CEREALS OVER REFINED CARBOHYDRATES AMONG STUDENTS OF SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC BAUCHI, BAUCHI STATE

ABSTRACT Whole grains are important sources of fiber and other nutrients. Consuming a diet rich in whole grains, as part of an overall healthy diet may reduce the risk for coronary heart disease, high blood cholesterol, certain types of cancers, type 2 diabetes, among others. Both refined and whole grains can be fortified with nutrients to improve the nutrient profile of the product. The study assesses the knowledge, attitude and practice of whole cereal over refined carbohydrates among students of the school of Science and Technology, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi. A descriptive survey research design was used in the study. A stratified random sampling technique was used in this study. Stratified sampling technique was used for the study. Primary means of data collection was employed by the researchers, where a structured questionnaire was used to generate data. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize the data. Inferential statistics was also used to determine the relationship between variables. This was carried out using SPSS version 20.0. The present study showed that the respondents generally had just above average knowledge as regards whole cereals and refined carbohydrates, and they mostly had their nutrition information from either family members or friends around them. It was recommended that students of School of Science and Technology, Federal Polytechnic Bauchi should try to include whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread in their diet for better nutrition intake. Students should aim for balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains for overall health.