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Mondal S, Basu C, Alkhawaitri M, Almamari I, Albrwaney S, Alhabsi T. Obesity among college students in Oman: implications for health and academic performance. BMC Public Health 2025; 25:1111. [PMID: 40128737 PMCID: PMC11931841 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-025-21946-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2025] [Indexed: 03/26/2025] Open
Abstract
This study examines the impact of obesity on the current health and academic performance of college students, with potential long-term implications for their overall well-being. Using survey data from 300 students at a university in the Arab Gulf of Oman, the study finds that over 27% of students are classified as overweight or obese. The analysis reveals a significant negative relationship between obesity and academic performance, with obese students showing a 6.6% decrease in academic grades compared to their peers of healthy weight. The findings suggest that the likelihood of earning lower academic grades is 2.54 times higher among obese students than those with normal weight. Additionally, the study indicates that obese students face an 8.5% higher burden of obesity-related health issues and are 5.77 times more likely to develop such conditions compared to normal-weight students. These results highlight that obesity affects both academic achievement and health, with potential long-term consequences for students' well-being. To address these issues, educational institutions and communities should prioritize promoting healthy lifestyles, including proper nutrition and weight management support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swadhin Mondal
- Department of Economics and Finance, University of Nizwa, Niwa, Oman.
| | - Chaiti Basu
- Khoula Hospital, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Maram Alkhawaitri
- Department of Economics and Finance, University of Nizwa, Niwa, Oman
| | - Ibtisam Almamari
- Department of Economics and Finance, University of Nizwa, Niwa, Oman
| | - Safiya Albrwaney
- Department of Economics and Finance, University of Nizwa, Niwa, Oman
| | - Tasnim Alhabsi
- Department of Economics and Finance, University of Nizwa, Niwa, Oman
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2
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Moore D, Morrell JS. Do dietary patterns differ with video game usage in college men? JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:2362-2370. [PMID: 35997702 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2110381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To assess differences in dietary quality among college men reporting high, moderate, and non-video game usage. Participants: College men aged 18-24. Methods: Cross-sectional data were collected between 2012 and 2020. Participants (n = 1259) were categorized according to self-reported video game usage: non-users (NVG), <1 h/day (MVG), and ≥1 h/day (HVG). ANCOVA identified group differences in nutrient intake from 3-day food records. Results: College men reported 30% NVG, 39% MVG, and 31% HVG. Higher saturated fat (30.2 ± 0.4 g and 30.1 ± 0.3 g, vs. 28.5 ± 0.4 g, p < .01, p < .01) and lower fruit/vegetable intake (3.00 ± 0.1 cups and 2.91 ± 0.1 cups, vs. 3.45 ± 0.1 cups, p < .00, p < .00) was observed in HVG and MVG vs. NVG. Higher discretionary calories (750 ± 13 kcals, vs. 686 ± 13 kcals, p < .00) in HVG and sodium (3922 ± 44 mg, vs. 3860 ± 50 mg, p < .02) in MVG were reported vs. NVG. Conclusion: Video game usage was associated with higher saturated fat, sodium, discretionary calories, and lower F/V intake in college men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Moore
- Department of Agriculture, Nutrition, and Food Systems, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Jesse Stabile Morrell
- Department of Agriculture, Nutrition, and Food Systems, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA
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Jadhav A, Vadiveloo M, Laforge RG, Melanson KJ. Dietary contributors to fermentable carbohydrate intake in healthy American college students. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:2577-2587. [PMID: 36170454 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2119403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study explored food items that contribute most toward increased fermentable carbohydrate (FC) intake and its association with diet quality in college students. METHOD This cross-sectional study included 571 consented college students (≥18 years) with reported energy intakes (500-3500 kcal/day for women; 800-4000 kcal/day for men). FC intake and healthy eating index-2015 (HEI-2015) scores were assessed by diet history questionnaire-II. Data were analyzed by unadjusted bivariate linear regression and Pearson correlation tests. RESULTS The mean intakes of total FC (β = 1.24; 95% Confidence Interval: 1.02, 1.47) significantly predicted HEI-2015 scores. Positive correlations were found between FC intake and red and orange vegetables (r = 0.62), whole fruits (r = 0.63), and dark green vegetables (r = 0.58). Conclusions: Higher FC intake was associated with higher diet quality; vegetables and fruits are primary contributors to FC content. Efforts are required to promote these food items to improve diet quality and FC intake to shape eating choices in college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajita Jadhav
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Maya Vadiveloo
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Robert G Laforge
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Kathleen J Melanson
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
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Matthews CR, Rodriguez AX, Kabiri LS, Perkins-Ball AM, Perkins HY, Diep CS. Dietary behaviors and food insecurity among Houston college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:2661-2667. [PMID: 36170520 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2122722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This study assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on college students' nutrition, including dietary behaviors and food security status. Participants: Participants included 140 students between 18 and 25 years of age, who were enrolled in a college or university in the greater Houston area. Methods: Analyses included descriptive statistics, t tests, and ANOVAs to analyze differences in dietary behaviors by demographic variables, and chi-square tests to assess characteristics associated with food security status. Results: The majority of participants reported changing their diets due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There were no significant differences by demographics. However, there were significant differences in food security status by race/ethnicity and social class. Conclusion: This study identified changes and disparities in college students' dietary behaviors and food security status during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings help inform future policy, programs, and research to address college students' nutrition during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura S Kabiri
- Kinesiology Department, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Heidi Y Perkins
- Kinesiology Department, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
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Lovan P, Prado G, Lee T, Coccia C. A snapshot of eating behaviors in undergraduate college students living in South Florida. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:2567-2576. [PMID: 36084262 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2119402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To examine a) whether college students' eating behaviors are different by students' sex and/or body mass index (BMI) categories and b) the correlations between college students' eating behaviors and the degree to which they rely on internal bodily signals for food intake. Participants: Undergraduate college students 18-24 years old at a public university located in South Florida. Methods: Eligible students answered questionnaires to examine interoception, intuitive eating, and eating behaviors including emotional eating, restrained eating, cognitive restraint, external eating, and uncontrolled eating. Pearson correlation and independent t test were used (significance: p < 0.05). Results: Females reported lower interoception, intuitive eating, and higher emotional eating than males. Students with lower BMI had higher intuitive eating and lower restrained eating. Interoception was positively correlated with intuitive eating and negatively correlated with emotional, uncontrolled, restrained, and external eating. Conclusion: College students who have a better connection with their bodily signals have healthier eating behaviors and lower BMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Padideh Lovan
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Guillermo Prado
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Tae Lee
- Department of Child Psychology and Education, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Catherine Coccia
- Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
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Solomou S, Robinson H, Perez-Algorta G. The association of diet quality with the mental health of students during their transition to university. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0312123. [PMID: 39405296 PMCID: PMC11478860 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0312123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 10/01/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
University students are at risk of experiencing mental health and diet quality problems during their transition to university. This study aimed to examine the bidirectional associations between the diet quality and mental health of students during their transition to universities in the UK, and the impact of the transition on diet quality and mental health. The study adopted a cross-sectional design and took place during the first semester of year 2021-2022. Participants were first year undergraduate students at four UK universities, living at student halls. They were invited to participate by completing online surveys, including a diet quality instrument (Short Form Food Frequency Questionnaire), a mental health instrument (Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale) and a quality of transition instrument (College Adjustment Questionnaire). Results showed that a healthy diet was associated with good mental health (b = -3.46, 95% CI [-6.14, -.78]). Unfavourable mental health was associated with having an unhealthy diet (b = -.01, 95% CI [-.02, -.00]). Transition did not moderate the relationship between diet quality and mental health of students, or vice versa (ps> .05). Preliminary analyses showed a significant direct effect of good quality of transition to university on good mental health (b = -1.51, 95% CI [-1.88, -1.13]), but did not have an indirect effect via diet quality; there were no significant direct or indirect effects on diet quality, however larger studies are needed to replicate these preliminary analyses. Our current findings can inform university policies and health education research, and further research is needed to determine whether interventions to improve diet quality at the university level could reduce mental health issues, and whether interventions to support students under stress may lead to healthier dietary habits. Cross-sectional studies cannot determine the directionality of effects, hence longitudinal studies are required to enhance our understanding of the relationships between diet quality and mental health over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomis Solomou
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Heather Robinson
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, United Kingdom
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Rohde K, Sutton CA, Knowles K, Fazzino TL. Availability and consumption of hyper-palatable foods in an all-you-can-eat cafeteria among college freshmen. Eat Behav 2024; 54:101905. [PMID: 39098110 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2024.101905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION College campuses provide an expansive food environment, which may contribute to elevated risk of excess energy intake and weight gain among college students. All-you-can-eat style cafeterias often expose students to hyper-palatable foods (HPF), which may promote overeating. This study aimed to examine the availability of HPF in an all-you-can-eat college cafeteria, and to examine HPF intake during meals among undergraduates. METHOD Publicly available cafeteria menu data from a Midwestern university were analyzed and included 25 meals. To determine the availability of HPF within the cafeteria meals, the standardized definition of HPF by Fazzino et al. (2019) was used, which specifies combinations of palatability-inducing nutrients at quantitative thresholds that may induce hyper-palatability. Participants (N = 225) who ate in the cafeteria in the past 24 h were presented with a list of all menu items for their corresponding cafeteria meal, and self-reported all items consumed. RESULTS On average, 40 % (SD = 1.4) of total food items available per meal were HPF, with 68 % (SD = 3.6) of items with elevated fat and sodium. Regarding intake of HPF among students, approximately 64 % (SD = 31.4) of foods consumed were HPF, and 51 % (SD = 32.3) of items consumed had elevated fat and sodium. CONCLUSION Findings indicated that college students may be regularly exposed to HPF in all-you-can-eat college cafeteria environments, and that students may consume cafeteria meals that are primarily comprised of HPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn Rohde
- Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States of America; Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States of America
| | - Cassandra A Sutton
- Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States of America; Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States of America
| | - Kelly Knowles
- Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States of America; Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States of America
| | - Tera L Fazzino
- Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States of America; Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States of America.
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Sullivan K, Kuijer RG, Kerr JA. Stress, eating and weight change in first year students: the moderating role of self-compassion. Psychol Health 2024; 39:914-930. [PMID: 36111595 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2022.2122461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current study sought to examine the drivers of weight change in first-year university students. The study examined the moderating role of self-compassion in the relationship between stress, eating and weight change. Specifically, we expected that students low in self-compassion would respond to stress with unhealthy eating resulting in weight gain. We expected students high in self-compassion to be buffered from the negative effects of stress (moderated mediation model). METHODS First-year university students in New Zealand (N = 136) completed measures of healthy and unhealthy food intake and BMI at the beginning and end of the academic year. Self-compassion was measured at baseline only, and perceived stress was averaged over four time points across the year. RESULTS Students gained a significant 1.45 kg (SD 3.67 kg) of body weight. Self-compassion moderated the relationship between stress and changes in: (a) unhealthy (but not healthy) food intake, and (b) body weight. For those with low self-compassion, perceived stress was significantly related to an increase in BMI and, unexpectedly, to a decrease in unhealthy food intake. Changes in food intake did not explain changes in BMI. CONCLUSION Wellbeing interventions for university students to reduce negative effects of stress should incorporate concurrent training in self-compassion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Sullivan
- School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Roeline G Kuijer
- School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Jessica A Kerr
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Centre for Adolescent Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Savage MJ, Magistro D, Hennis PJ, Donaldson J, Healy LC, Hunter KA, James RM. Determining factors of physical activity and sedentary behaviour in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A longitudinal study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298134. [PMID: 38394147 PMCID: PMC10889634 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Historically, university students demonstrate poor movement behaviours that could negatively impact current and future health. Recent literature has focused on identifying determinants of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) in this population to inform the development of intervention strategies. However, the COVID-19 pandemic substantially restricted movement behaviours in this population, meaning findings of previous research may no longer be applicable within the current societal context. The present study explored the longitudinal relationships between pre-pandemic psychological, behavioural and anthropometric factors, and the movement behaviours of UK university students nine months following the outbreak of COVID-19. METHODS Mental wellbeing (MWB), perceived stress (PS), body mass index (BMI), SB, and PA were assessed using an online self-report survey in 255 students prior to (October 2019) and nine months following (October 2020) the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the UK. Path analysis was utilised to test relationships between pre-COVID mental wellbeing, perceived stress and BMI, and movement behaviours during the pandemic. RESULTS The fit of the path analysis model was good (χ2 = 0.01; CMIN = 0.10, CFI = 1.00, RMSEA = 0.00). Pre-covid MWB and PS positively influenced PA (β = 0.29; β = 0.24; P < 0.01) but not SB (β = -0.10; β = 0.00; P = 0.79) during the pandemic. Additionally, pre-pandemic SB and PA positively influenced SB and PA during the pandemic respectively (SB: β = 0.26; P < 0.01) (PA: β = 0.55; P < 0.01). Pre-pandemic BMI did not influence any measured variable during the pandemic (PA: β = 0.03 and P = 0.29; SB: β = 0.06 and P = 0.56), and there was no mediating effect of PA on SB during the pandemic (β = -0.26; P = 0.14). CONCLUSION These findings indicate that pre-covid mental health and movement behaviours had a direct positive influence on PA during the pandemic, but not SB. This longitudinal study demonstrates the influence that prior psychological and behavioural factors have in determining university students' response to periods of elevated stress and uncertainty, furthering our understanding of determinants of health-related behaviours in students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Savage
- SHAPE Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Daniele Magistro
- SHAPE Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Philip J. Hennis
- SHAPE Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - James Donaldson
- SHAPE Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Laura C. Healy
- SHAPE Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty A. Hunter
- SHAPE Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth M. James
- SHAPE Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Ngopya Djiki S, Rivard MC, Trudeau F. Needs and interests regarding the lifestyle habits of students in a Canadian university. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2495-2500. [PMID: 34670107 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1974456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, we investigate university students to learn about their barriers to improving and/or maintaining a healthy lifestyle and their needs and interests regarding the development of a tailored intervention to promote physical activity and a healthy diet. PARTICIPANTS The qualitative research included three focus groups consisting of 22 university students.Methods: The interview grid was developed around the variables of the ecological Conceptual Framework of the Quebec Ministry of Health and Social Services. Data were analyzed using NVivo software.Results: Time constraints due to a heavy workload, high costs and low motivation were the reasons students failed to participate in physical activity and/or adopt a healthy diet. Furthermore, they perceived that on-campus food and physical activity are more expensive and the quality of food is poorer.Conclusions: Students are nevertheless interested in the development of a tailored intervention to promote physical activity and a healthy diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Ngopya Djiki
- Department of Anatomy, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Rivard
- Department of Human Kinetics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - François Trudeau
- Department of Human Kinetics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
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Maillet MA, Grouzet FME. Understanding changes in eating behavior during the transition to university from a self-determination theory perspective: a systematic review. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:422-439. [PMID: 34292133 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1891922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this systematic review was to understand how and why eating behavior changes during the transition to university, and interpret findings from a self-determination theory perspective (Ryan & Deci, 2000). Methods: We searched six databases and identified 51 articles with findings involving changes in eating behavior during the transition to university. Results: During this transition, students eat less food, less healthy, and less regularly. These changes are mostly among students who move into a university residence or off-campus housing, with few changes in eating behavior among students who continue living at home. Yet, incoming students with food skills and experience living independently seem less likely to experience these changes. Conclusions: The university context offers challenges to eating healthy. Students' satisfaction of psychological needs may explain observed changes in habits, self-regulation, and motivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles A Maillet
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Youth and Society, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Frederick M E Grouzet
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Youth and Society, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
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12
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Solomou S, Logue J, Reilly S, Perez-Algorta G. A systematic review of the association of diet quality with the mental health of university students: implications in health education practice. HEALTH EDUCATION RESEARCH 2023; 38:28-68. [PMID: 36441584 PMCID: PMC9853940 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyac035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
University students are at risk of experiencing mental health problems during the transition from home to university. This transition can also adversely affect their diet quality. This review aims to examine bidirectional associations from observational studies regarding the influence of diet quality on the mental health of university students, and vice versa. The databases PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO, The Cochrane Library and Web of Science were searched using relevant search terms. The searches were last updated on 15 July 2022. Majority of studies (36 out of 45) found that good diet quality of students was associated with better mental health in terms of depression, anxiety, stress and overall general mental well-being. Moreover, majority of studies (19 out of 23) found that stress and anxiety of students were associated with poorer diet quality. The effect sizes observed were generally small-moderate. Healthy diets of students have been associated with better mental health in terms of depression, anxiety, stress or other mental health issues. Stress experienced by university students has been associated with unhealthy diets. There are implications for health education research, as interventions to improve diet quality at the university level could reduce mental health issues; additionally, interventions to support students under stress may lead to healthier dietary habits when living on campuses. Randomized controlled trials and intervention studies are needed to further investigate these implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Logue
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW, UK
| | - Siobhan Reilly
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW, UK
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Bradford, Richmond Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD7 1DP, UK
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Du C, Luo N, Wu L, Gadd S, Zhang X, Tucker RM. Health behavior changes associated with weight gain among first-year international students studying at an American university. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:300-309. [PMID: 33651676 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1891082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: To characterize the health behaviors and outcomes of first-year international students (FYIS) studying in the U.S. Participants and methods: Three different cohorts of FYIS from a large midwestern university in the U.S. completed three laboratory visits between August and March. The study began in 2017 and ended in March 2020. Anthropometrics, acculturative stress, eating behaviors, sleep, physical activity, and eating habits were assessed. Results: Fifty-four students completed the study. Females had a significant increase in percent body fat (p = .036) and a decrease in sleep quality (p = .006) at the final visit vs. baseline, and uncontrolled (p = .006) and emotional (p < .001) eating behaviors were higher. FYIS who gained more than the median 1.2 kg over the study period experienced higher acculturative stress (p = .004) and a decline in sleep quality (p = .003). Conclusion: Reducing acculturative stress and improving sleep quality should be explored as interventions to protect against undesirable changes in adiposity among FYIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Du
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Nachuan Luo
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Linmeng Wu
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Suzannah Gadd
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Xinyi Zhang
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Robin M Tucker
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Almutairi N, Burns S, Portsmouth L. Nutritional Behaviour of Adolescents and the Impact of Covid-19 on A Diet in Saudi Arabia. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NUTRITION AND FOOD SCIENCE JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.12944/crnfsj.10.3.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background
In recent decades, changes in food consumption among adolescents in Arabic speaking countries, including The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), has resulted in increased burden of overweight and obesity. COVID-19 related restrictions have further impacted lifestyle and diet among adolescents in KSA.
Aim
The present study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, behaviour and dietary patterns of adolescents and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic related restrictions on these behaviours.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in six intermediate schools among 1500 adolescents (11-15 years) via an anonymous online survey. The Chi Square test was used to compare gender stratified nutritional knowledge, attitude and behaviour of adolescents and the impact of COVID-19 related restrictions. To determine the factors associated with nutritional change during COVID-19 lockdown, logistic regression was employed using the categorisation of nutritional change during COVID-19 restrictions versus no change in univariate and multivariate analyses.
Results
A good level of nutrition-related knowledge and attitude was demonstrated both by female and male students, with 66% and 57% of participants scoring above the median of the total possible knowledge and attitude score, respectively. After adjusting for all variables, higher nutrition knowledge score predicted students to be less likely to report increased food consumption during COVID-19 restrictions, whereas students with higher nutrition attitude scores and with a higher risk of increased food consumption were more likely to increase food consumption during COVID-19 restrictions.
Conclusions
Unhealthy dietary habits among Saudi adolescents are of paramount public health concern and the COVID-19 restriction period exacerbated the pre-pandemic nutrition-related unhealthy behaviours. Therefore, school-based interventions aiming to promote healthy lifestyles and the wellbeing of Saudi adolescents and use of qualitative recall dietary diary is also crucial to develop programs that prevent unhealthy lifestyles in adolescents in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naif Almutairi
- 1School of Population Health, Curtin University Bentley Campus, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sharyn Burns
- 3Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Linda Portsmouth
- 3Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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15
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Diversity of change in body mass index and skinfold thickness between different study courses within four years of study among the male students in a university in Poland. ANTHROPOLOGICAL REVIEW 2022. [DOI: 10.18778/1898-6773.85.3.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study examined whether there were significant changes (expectedly increase) in BMI (Body Mass Index), and relative subcutaneous body fat during the four years of study in a university and compared these changes between the students of different courses, viz., Computer science, Law and administration, Humanities and Physical education.
Design: This was a prospective follow up study with measurements at two time points with gap of four years. Body mass index, Triceps, subscapular, mid-axillary, abdominal, supra-illiac and medial-calf skinfold thicknesses were measured at two points of time, just after entrance to university and again after completion of four years. Student’s T-test, one-way ANOVA, and repeated measures ANNOVA (two-way) were employed to assess significance of differences in anthropometric measures between groups of students.
Setting: The study was conducted at the University of Rzeszów, Poland.
Participants: 191 young men university students aged approximately 19.5 years and 24.0 years, at the beginning and after four years, respectively, during this study.
Results: Students of all courses underwent increments in BMI, absolute- and relative skinfold thicknesses, except that the students of physical education course did not show change in skinfold thicknesses relative to BMI.
Conclusions: It has been concluded that the change in the adiposity profile during the years of study at university varied according to the course types. Further, detailed studies on the nature and cause of such variation occurring between course types may lead to better understanding etiology of overweight and obesity before entering to adult life.
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16
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Wilson NA, Villani A, Tan SY, Mantzioris E. UniStArt: A 12-Month Prospective Observational Study of Body Weight, Dietary Intake, and Physical Activity Levels in Australian First-Year University Students. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2241. [PMID: 36140342 PMCID: PMC9496163 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Students in the United States gain weight significantly during their first year of university, however limited data are available for Australian students. Methods: This 12-month observational study was conducted to monitor monthly body weight and composition, as well as quarterly eating behaviours, dietary intake, physical activity, sedentary behaviours, and basal metabolic rate changes amongst first-year Australian university students. Participants were first-year university students over 18 years. Results: Twenty-two first-year university students (5 males and 17 females) completed the study. Female students gained weight significantly at two, three, and four-months (+0.9 kg; +1.5 kg; +1.1 kg, p < 0.05). Female waist circumference (2.5 cm increase at three-months, p = 0.012), and body fat also increased (+0.9%, p = 0.026 at three-months). Intakes of sugar, saturated fat (both >10% of total energy), and sodium exceeded recommended levels (>2000 mg) at 12-months. Greater sedentary behaviours were observed amongst male students throughout the study (p <0.05). Conclusions: Female students are at risk of unfavourable changes in body composition during the first year of university, while males are at risk of increased sedentary behaviours. High intakes of saturated fat, sugars, and sodium warrant future interventions in such a vulnerable group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina A. Wilson
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Anthony Villani
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556, Australia
| | - Sze-Yen Tan
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Evangeline Mantzioris
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Alliance for Research in Nutrition, Exercise and Activity (ARENA), University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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17
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Pfisterer J, Rausch C, Wohlfarth D, Bachert P, Jekauc D, Wunsch K. Effectiveness of Physical-Activity-Based Interventions Targeting Overweight and Obesity among University Students—A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159427. [PMID: 35954789 PMCID: PMC9368556 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Overweight and obesity, including their prevalence and consequences, reflect a leading public health problem. Studies have already shown that physical activity leads to a reduction in body weight in children and adults. However, the university setting has rarely been investigated. The aim of this review is, therefore, to examine and summarize the effectiveness of physical-activity-based interventions to reduce obesity and overweight in university students. Three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for relevant studies published in English between January 2010 and February 2022. Quantitative studies conducting a physical-activity-based intervention with overweight or obese university students and reporting changes in BMI were included. Data were described in a narrative synthesis. Out of 16 included studies, 11 reported a significant reduction in BMI. However, all studies except one were able to demonstrate some BMI improvements, whereas all studies reported significant changes in at least one health-related indicator. Aerobic exercises were able to demonstrate the greatest reductions in BMI. This review is the first systematic presentation on the effectiveness of physical-activity-based interventions in overweight and obese university students. Future work should reconsider BMI as the primary outcome if appropriate within the respective study design (i.e., to measure long-term effects). More interventions are needed to improve strategies.
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18
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Haidar SA, de Vries N, Poulia KA, Hassan H, Rached M, Karavetian M. Neck Circumference as a Screening Tool for Metabolic Syndrome among Lebanese College Students. Diseases 2022; 10:diseases10020031. [PMID: 35735631 PMCID: PMC9221764 DOI: 10.3390/diseases10020031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of symptoms that, when present, increase the risk for cardiovascular disease. There is a need for reliable screening tools that are ethnically sensitive. Two hundred and sixty-six college students were assessed anthropometrically. They had a fasting blood sample drawn, and blood pressure measured. They then completed a demographic questionnaire and The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The prevalence of MetS was found to be 10.1% in males and 4.5% in females. Neck circumference (NC) was positively associated with BMI in males (r = 0.55, p < 0.001) and females (r = 0.53, p < 0.001) and was positively associated with hip circumference in both males (r = 0.47, p < 0.001) and females (r = 0.50, p < 0.001) and with waist circumference in males (r = 0.46, p < 0.001) and females (r = 0.49, p < 0.001.) An area under the curve (AUC) was calculated using receiver operating characteristics (ROC), and NC > 38 cm in males and NC> 36 cm in females were found to be appropriate cut-offs for diagnosing MetS. NC is a reliable and non-invasive screening tool that can be used to screen for MetS in males. NC could also serve as an anthropometric instrument to assess abdominal obesity and could be valuable for college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzan A. Haidar
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon;
| | - Nanne de Vries
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 6166200, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Kalliopi-Anna Poulia
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Quality of Life, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece;
| | - Hussein Hassan
- Nutrition Program, Department of Natural Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 135053, Lebanon;
| | - Mohammad Rached
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon;
| | - Mirey Karavetian
- School of Nutrition, Faculty of Community Services, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON M1L2A6, Canada
- Correspondence:
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19
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Lovan P, George F, Campa A, Huffman F, Coccia C. The Effect of Mood Change and Intuitive Eating Skills on Self-Regulation of Food Intake among Undergraduate College Students. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH EDUCATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19325037.2022.2048748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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20
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Nutritional labeling modifies meal composition strategies in a computer-based food selection task. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2022.104618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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21
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Racine EF, Schorno R, Gholizadeh S, Bably MB, Hatami F, Stephens C, Zadrozny W, Schulkind L, Paul R. A College Fast-Food Environment and Student Food and Beverage Choices: Developing an Integrated Database to Examine Food and Beverage Purchasing Choices among College Students. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14040900. [PMID: 35215550 PMCID: PMC8879900 DOI: 10.3390/nu14040900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Universities typically offer residential students a variety of fast-food dining options as part of the student meal plan. When residential students make fast-food purchases on campus there is a digital record of the transaction which can be used to study food purchasing behavior. This study examines the association between student demographic, economic, and behavioral factors and the healthfulness of student fast-food purchases. The 3781 fast-food items sold at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte from fall 2016 to spring 2019 were given a Fast-Food Health Score. Each student participating in the university meal plan was given a Student Average Fast-Food Health Score; calculated by averaging the Fast-Food Health Scores associated with each food and beverage item the student purchased at a fast-food vendor, concession stand, or convenience store over a semester. This analysis included 14,367 students who generated 1,593,235 transactions valued at $10,757,110. Multivariate analyses were used to examine demographic, economic, and behavioral factors associated with Student Average Fast-Food Health Scores. Being of a low income, spending more money on fast-food items, and having a lower GPA were associated with lower Student Average Fast-Food Health Scores. Future research utilizing institutional food transaction data to study healthy food choices is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth F. Racine
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Texas A&M University, El Paso, TX 79927, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-915-859-9111
| | - Rachel Schorno
- Department of Public Policy, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
| | - Shafie Gholizadeh
- Department of Computer Science, Computing and Informatics, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
| | - Morium Barakat Bably
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (M.B.B.); (C.S.); (R.P.)
| | - Faizeh Hatami
- Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
| | - Casey Stephens
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (M.B.B.); (C.S.); (R.P.)
| | - Wlodek Zadrozny
- Department of Computer Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
| | - Lisa Schulkind
- Department of Economics, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
| | - Rajib Paul
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (M.B.B.); (C.S.); (R.P.)
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22
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Lee SY, Agocha VB, Hernandez PR, Park CL, Williams M, Carney LM. Coping styles moderate the relationship between perceived discrimination and eating behaviors during the transition to college. Appetite 2022; 168:105699. [PMID: 34543691 PMCID: PMC8671288 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The transition to college is a critical developmental window during which eating behaviors are susceptible to dysregulation. Changes in exposure to discrimination contribute to alterations in eating behaviors, which may be exacerbated or attenuated by coping styles. The present longitudinal study examines whether increases in perceived discrimination predict increases in overeating and decreases in eating well during the transition to college. We expect that adaptive coping styles will buffer against, while maladaptive coping styles will exacerbate, the effects of increases in perceived discrimination on increases in overeating and decreases in eating well. First year students (n = 804) were assessed at two time points: the spring before freshman year (Time 1) and one year later during the spring semester of freshman year (Time 2). Two distinct coping styles emerged from a factor analysis: adaptive (active coping, planning, emotional support, positive reframing, acceptance, instrumental support) and maladaptive coping (denial, venting, self-blame, self-distraction). Increases in perceived discrimination, lower adaptive coping, and higher maladaptive coping had main effects for predicting more overeating at Time 2. Among students who reported increases in perceived discrimination, higher use of adaptive coping was associated with less overeating at Time 2 while higher use of maladaptive coping was associated with more overeating. While adaptive and maladaptive coping styles had main effects on eating well, change in perceived discrimination did not. Neither adaptive nor maladaptive coping styles interacted with change in perceived discrimination to predict eating well. Findings inform a gap in the literature about the relationship between discrimination and eating behaviors from a developmental perspective by demonstrating that adaptive and maladaptive coping styles influence the effects of changes in perceived discrimination on overeating during the college transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Y. Lee
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Unit 1020, Storrs, CT 06269-1020
| | - V. Bede Agocha
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Unit 1020, Storrs, CT 06269-1020
| | - Paul R. Hernandez
- Department of Teaching, Learning, and Culture, Texas A&M University, 308 Harrington Tower, College Station, TX, 77843
| | - Crystal L. Park
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Unit 1020, Storrs, CT 06269-1020
| | - Michelle Williams
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Unit 1020, Storrs, CT 06269-1020
| | - Lauren M. Carney
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Unit 1020, Storrs, CT 06269-1020
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23
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Wilson T, DeVaan LS, LaCasse ME, Gile EM, Weis MJ, Ahmann MD, Schnellman GI, Lenz MT, Hooks TL. Effect of Walnut Predinner Snack on Mealtime Hunger and Nutrient Intake Among University Students. J Med Food 2021; 25:89-96. [PMID: 34714144 PMCID: PMC8787691 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2021.0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Freshman-15 is a phenomenon of first-year university students resulting in weight gain partly due to new cafeteria eating patterns and stress. This study determined if a premeal walnut snack alters planned eating behavior and mealtime nutrient intake during a subsequent buffet-model meal. Healthy university students (n = 36; 18.1 ± 0.5 years; body mass index: 23.6 ± 3.9) received three treatments (90 min premeal) in randomized order on 3 consecutive days: (1) snack of 190 Cal (1 oz) of walnuts (WS), (2) snack of 190 Cal of gummy candy (GS), or (3) no snack (NS; control) before a standard cafeteria dinner (1760 Cal). Visual analog scale (VAS) surveys were administered before and after dinner, and caloric intake was determined. Premeal VAS desire to eat was lower after WS and GS than NS, whereas the sense of hunger and sense of fullness were higher after WS and GS compared with NS. Postmeal VAS was not different between treatments. Mealtime calories, total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, protein, sodium, fiber, and sugar consumed after WS were significantly less than NS. Total fat and sodium consumed after GS did not significantly differ from NS. Mealtime total fat, sodium, and fiber for WS were significantly less than GC, and a trend was observed for total calories. Differences in calorie intake were not observed between treatments when snack calories were included as part of the mealtime caloric intake. These findings could be helpful for promoting WS and to a lesser degree GS for increased satiety before meals possibly leading to reduced food intake during dinner by university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ted Wilson
- Department of Biology, Winona State University, Winona, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lauren S DeVaan
- Department of Biology, Winona State University, Winona, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth M Gile
- Department of Biology, Winona State University, Winona, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mackenzie J Weis
- Department of Biology, Winona State University, Winona, Minnesota, USA
| | - Molly D Ahmann
- Department of Biology, Winona State University, Winona, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Mason T Lenz
- Department of Biology, Winona State University, Winona, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tisha L Hooks
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Winona State University, Winona, Minnesota, USA
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24
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Qiu N, Moore JB, Wang Y, Fu J, Ding K, Li R. Perceived Parental Attitudes Are Indirectly Associated with Consumption of Junk Foods and Sugar-Sweetened Beverages among Chinese Adolescents through Home Food Environment and Autonomous Motivation: A Path Analysis. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13103403. [PMID: 34684401 PMCID: PMC8541436 DOI: 10.3390/nu13103403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to use path analysis to determine the association between perceived parental attitudes toward restricting junk food (JF)/sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake and JF/SSB consumption among Chinese adolescents, and whether JF/SSB availability in the home environment and autonomous motivation of adolescents mediated the association. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using questionnaires adapted from the Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating (FLASHE) Study to collect data on 3819 participants with an average age of 14.7 years (SD = 1.7). Spearman correlations and path analysis were performed. It was found that perceived parental attitudes were not directly associated with adolescents’ JF/SSB consumption frequency, but indirectly related to them through JF/SSB availability in the home environment and autonomous motivation of adolescents. When parents held a less positive attitude toward JF/SSB consumption and kept less JFs/SSBs at home, youth displayed more autonomous motivation for restricting JF/SSB intake and consumed fewer JFs/SSBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Qiu
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (N.Q.); (Y.W.); (J.F.); (K.D.)
| | - Justin B. Moore
- Department of Implementation Science, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA;
| | - Yechuang Wang
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (N.Q.); (Y.W.); (J.F.); (K.D.)
| | - Jialin Fu
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (N.Q.); (Y.W.); (J.F.); (K.D.)
| | - Kai Ding
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (N.Q.); (Y.W.); (J.F.); (K.D.)
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (N.Q.); (Y.W.); (J.F.); (K.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-27-68759901; Fax: +86-27-68758648
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25
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Dutton GR, Kinsey AW, Howell CR, Pisu M, Dobelstein AE, Allison DB, Xun P, Levitsky DA, Fontaine K. The daily Self-Weighing for Obesity Management in Primary Care Study: Rationale, design and methodology. Contemp Clin Trials 2021; 107:106463. [PMID: 34082075 PMCID: PMC8429187 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2021.106463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Daily self-weighing (DSW) may be an effective harm-reduction intervention to disrupt continued weight gain. Self-Weighing for Obesity Management in Primary Care (SWOP) is a 24-month randomized controlled trial in 400 adults with obesity (BMI: kg/m2 ≥ 30) receiving primary care through a clinical network affiliated with an academic medical center. Objective To test DSW as a potentially scalable way to deter age-related weight gain among primary care patients with obesity. Methods Randomized-controlled trial with two conditions: DSW (instruction to weigh daily and provision of a web-enabled digital scale with graphical weight feedback) or Standard Care (receive a monetary gift card equivalent to value of the scale). Both groups receive standardized weight management educational material. SWOP will test the causal effect of assignment to DSW (Aim 1) and adherence to DSW (Aim 2) on weight (primary outcome) and adoption of weight management practices (secondary outcomes), as well as evaluate the cost-effectiveness of DSW compared to standard care (Aim 3). Findings may inform clinical guidelines for weight management by providing evidence that DSW attenuates continued age-related weight gain among adults with obesity. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04044794).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth R Dutton
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1717 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA.
| | - Amber W Kinsey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1717 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA.
| | - Carrie R Howell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1717 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA.
| | - Maria Pisu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1717 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA.
| | - Amy E Dobelstein
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1717 11th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA.
| | - David B Allison
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Indiana University-Bloomington, 1025 E. 7th Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Pengcheng Xun
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Indiana University-Bloomington, 1025 E. 7th Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - David A Levitsky
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, 244 Garden Ave, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | - Kevin Fontaine
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1665 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.
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26
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Foscarini-Craggs P, Lowe R, Lee M. Changes over time in the relationship between weight, body fat, motivation, impulsivity and eating behaviour. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1353. [PMID: 34238269 PMCID: PMC8268531 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11402-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND University students are at a greater risk of gaining weight compared to others. We explored associations between changes in weight and a set of dispositional constructs related to eating behaviour: motivation, impulsivity, social comparison, and eating styles. We predicted that increases in controlled motivation, impulsivity, uncontrolled eating, emotional eating, and physical appearance comparison would be related to increased weight and body fat. METHODS First year students at a British university completed baseline (n = 196) and three-month (n = 163) measures of impulsivity, physical appearance comparison, motivation for following a healthy diet, eating styles, weight and body fat. Baseline-follow-up changes in these constructs were computed and subjected to cluster analysis. RESULTS Four participant groups were identified according to similarities in the way these constructs evolved over time. The Losing and Gaining groups tended to show opposing changes in key variables (physical appearance comparison, uncontrolled eating, motivation, weight, and percentage of body fat). Interestingly, two groups showed no change in weight and body fat but evidenced unique changes in key variables, indicating that individuals can have different psychological profiles but still maintain their weight. CONCLUSIONS The study highlighted how stable weight maintenance arises from sets of interdependent constructs rather than variables in isolation, as well as emphasizing a need to take a person-centred approach to examining those at risk of weight gain and in developing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rob Lowe
- Psychology Department, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Michelle Lee
- Psychology Department, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
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27
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Katare B. Do low-cost economic incentives motivate healthy behavior? ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2021; 41:100982. [PMID: 33611235 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2021.100982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a field experiment to test the effectiveness of a conditional, low-cost, and recurring financial incentive in motivating recreation center visits. Results indicate that the financial incentive did not motivate students' recreation center visits. However, it was successful in increasing the frequency of recreation center visits for female students who had an established exercise habit. For a payout of $0.50, we estimate an increase of 0.4 visits per week for female students with established exercise habits. This provides modest evidence that the financial incentive structure was able to increase the behavioral response at the intensive margin. Our results show that the design of our financial incentive was not effective on the extensive margin. There was also no effect of the financial incentive on the recreation center visits for male students.
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Nicholson LM, Egbert AH, Moreno JP, Bohnert AM. Variability of Sleep and Relations to Body Weight Among First-Year College Students. Int J Behav Med 2021; 28:227-237. [PMID: 32385844 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-020-09888-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing research suggests that greater sleep variability may increase risk for weight gain. College often marks a transition to a less consistent daily schedule, which may adversely impact sleep routines and further increase risk for weight gain. The current study is among the first to explore relations between nighttime sleep variability and daytime sleep (napping) and body weight among first-year college students. METHODS Using daily diary methods, first-year college students (N = 307; 84.7% female) self-reported their sleep for seven days. Several indices were created to capture sleep variability for reported bedtime, wake time, and sleep duration, including weekday versus weekend differences (WvW), day to day differences (D2D), and overall standard deviation (SD). Napping was also assessed. Based on body mass index (BMI), individuals were categorized as underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obese. RESULTS Across indices, students' sleep varied over an hour on average across the week. Hierarchical regressions revealed that greater differences in wake time D2D, wake time SD, and sleep duration WvW were all associated with higher BMI, after accounting for gender, depressive symptoms, and sleep duration. Longer napping was also associated with higher BMI, using the same covariates. Finally, greater sleep variability was reported by overweight and obese than healthy weight individuals. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that sleep variability, particularly wake times and napping may be important modifiable sleep behaviors to investigate in future studies. More longitudinal research is needed to explore relations between multiple facets of sleep variability and weight gain, including possible mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennette P Moreno
- USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Wilson OWA, Galascio MM, Bopp M. Freshmen weight and body composition change determinants: A scoping review. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2021; 69:298-307. [PMID: 31589100 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2019.1665053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Scoping review of freshmen weight and body composition change determinants in order to inform practice, policymaking, and research that improve health and well-being. Methods: A systematic search of the literature identified potential sources. Duplicates were removed before a title and abstract review. A full-text review was then conducted on the remaining sources. Retained sources were then reviewed systematically before synthesis. Results: Eighty-five sources were synthesized. Variation in study design, measurement, reporting, and analyses of determinants, in particular dietary characteristics and physical activity, complicate comparisons. Dietary characteristics and physical activity appear to influence freshmen weight and body composition changes, while evidence indicates alcohol consumption is associated with deleterious weight and body composition changes. Conclusions: Design, measurement, analyses, and reporting can be improved considerably to better examine relationship between body composition changes and determinants in order to provide insight into, and inform, interventions and policies to benefit students' health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver W A Wilson
- Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Madison M Galascio
- Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Melissa Bopp
- Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Wongprawmas R, Sogari G, Menozzi D, Pellegrini N, Lefebvre M, Gómez MI, Mora C. Determinants of US University Students' Willingness to Include Whole Grain Pasta in Their Diet. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18063173. [PMID: 33808575 PMCID: PMC8003352 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18063173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
College students’ lifestyle and eating habits strongly affect their health. Among many healthy eating behaviors, including whole grain food in the diet is known as providing health benefits such as maintaining a steady blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and since it is rich in fiber and minerals, it is essential for the well-being. However, consumers’ intakes of whole grain products remain below recommendation, including college students. This study aims to evaluate determinant factors contributing to college students’ willingness to include whole grain pasta in their diets. A sample of 499 students enrolled in a US college participated in this study. Most students perceived whole grain pasta as healthy and filling and somewhat tasty. Availability and price were not barriers for consumption. Logistic regression results suggested that factors affecting students’ willingness to consume whole grain pasta in the future were the desire to eat, cognitive and affective attitudes, perception of whole grain pasta, as well as having already chosen pasta thanks to its availability at the dining. Two student segments were identified according to their healthy eating perception: Uninvolved and Health-conscious. Cognitive attitudes such as beneficial and essential had positive effects on consumption in both segments, suggesting that information provision covering specific health/nutritional benefits of whole grains for students is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rungsaran Wongprawmas
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 47/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (R.W.); (D.M.); (C.M.)
| | - Giovanni Sogari
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 47/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (R.W.); (D.M.); (C.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Davide Menozzi
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 47/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (R.W.); (D.M.); (C.M.)
| | - Nicoletta Pellegrini
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Sondrio 9 2/A, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Michele Lefebvre
- White Lodging School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, Purdue University Northwest, Hammond, IN 46323, USA;
| | - Miguel I. Gómez
- Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA;
| | - Cristina Mora
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 47/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; (R.W.); (D.M.); (C.M.)
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Sharma T, Morassut RE, Langlois C, Meyre D. Effect of sex/gender on obesity traits in Canadian first year university students: The GENEiUS study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247113. [PMID: 33592058 PMCID: PMC7886219 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While weight gain during first year of university has been well documented in North America, literature on sex-specific effects is scarce and inconsistent. The objective of this investigation was to explore sex-specific changes in obesity traits during first year of university at McMaster University (Ontario, Canada). METHODS 245 first-year students (80.4% females) were followed longitudinally with data collected early in the academic year and towards the end of the year. Obesity parameters including weight, waist and hip circumferences, BMI, and waist to hip ratio were investigated. The Mann-Whitney U test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used for pairwise comparison of traits in the absence of adjustments. Additionally, the repeated-measures ANOVA test was used with covariate adjustments to investigate the interaction between sex and time. RESULTS Overall sample trends indicated a significant increase in mean weight by 1.55 kg (95% CI: 1.24-1.86) over the school year (p<0.001). This was accompanied by significant gains in BMI, and waist and hip circumferences (p<0.001) in the overall sample. At baseline, males presented with higher body weight, BMI, waist and hip circumferences, and WHR, as compared to their females counterparts (p<0.01). Additionally, sex-stratified analysis indicated significant gains in weight, BMI, and waist and hip circumferences in both males and females (p<0.01). However, a comparison of the magnitude of change over time between the two sex groups revealed no significant difference for any of the investigated traits (p>0.05). CONCLUSION While our study confirms significant weight gain in both male and female first year university students in Ontario, Canada, it does not show sex specific differences within this context. Our investigation highlights the importance of accounting for sex and gender in health research and supports the need of further studies in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanmay Sharma
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Rita E. Morassut
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Christine Langlois
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - David Meyre
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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Murphy C, Takahashi S, Bovaird J, Koehler K. Relation of aerobic fitness, eating behavior and physical activity to body composition in college-age women: A path analysis. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2021; 69:30-37. [PMID: 31369354 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2019.1647210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Given the number of college students with a normal BMI decreases 9-12% throughout the college experience, we wanted to model the traits responsible for behaviors impacting body composition in college-age women. Participants: Participants (n = 141) were recruited from a freshman-level nutrition course between August 2016 and May 2018. Methods: We built a path analysis model using variables from online questionnaires and lab visits. We grouped participants by median split of aerobic fitness and evaluated model fit. We defined statistical significance as p < .05. Results: The model provided an adequate representation of the data (CFI = 0.921). Aerobic fitness was the strongest predictor of body fat (p < .001) in both high-fit (-0.440) and low-fit (-0.469) women. Body dissatisfaction demonstrated relationships with body fat previously established in athletes and clinical populations. Conclusion: Physical activity to improve aerobic fitness appears most effective at maintaining healthy body composition in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaise Murphy
- Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Shinya Takahashi
- Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Jim Bovaird
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Karsten Koehler
- Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, München, Germany
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McHill AW, Hilditch CJ, Fischer D, Czeisler CA, Garaulet M, Scheer FAJL, Klerman EB. Stability of the timing of food intake at daily and monthly timescales in young adults. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20849. [PMID: 33257712 PMCID: PMC7705740 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77851-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cross-sectional observations have shown that the timing of eating may be important for health-related outcomes. Here we examined the stability of eating timing, using both clock hour and relative circadian time, across one semester (n = 14) at daily and monthly time-scales. At three time points ~ 1 month apart, circadian phase was determined during an overnight in-laboratory visit and eating was photographically recorded for one week to assess timing and composition. Day-to-day stability was measured using the Composite Phase Deviation (deviation from a perfectly regular pattern) and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were used to determine individual stability across months (weekly average compared across months). Day-to-day clock timing of caloric events had poor stability within individuals (~ 3-h variation; ICC = 0.12-0.34). The timing of eating was stable across months (~ 1-h variation, ICCs ranging from 0.54-0.63), but less stable across months when measured relative to circadian timing (ICC = 0.33-0.41). Our findings suggest that though day-to-day variability in the timing of eating has poor stability, the timing of eating measured for a week is stable across months within individuals. This indicates two relevant timescales: a monthly timescale with more stability in eating timing than a daily timescale. Thus, a single day's food documentation may not represent habitual (longer timescale) patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W McHill
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Cassie J Hilditch
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Fatigue Countermeasures Laboratory, Department of Psychology, San José State University, San José, CA, 95192, USA
| | - Dorothee Fischer
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Sleep and Human Factors Research, Institute for Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center, Cologne, Germany
| | - Charles A Czeisler
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Marta Garaulet
- Department of Physiology, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Frank A J L Scheer
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Elizabeth B Klerman
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 100 Cambridge St, 20th Floor, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
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Sharma T, Manoharan B, Langlois C, Morassut RE, Meyre D. The effect of race/ethnicity on obesity traits in first year university students from Canada: The GENEiUS study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242714. [PMID: 33237969 PMCID: PMC7688123 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about the impact of race/ethnicity on weight change at university. The objective of this study is to determine if ethnicity has an impact on obesity traits in a multiethnic cohort of first-year students at McMaster University in Ontario, Canada. Methods 183 first year students from the three most represented ethnic groups (South Asian, East Asian, and white-Caucasian) in our study sample were followed longitudinally with data collected early in the academic year and towards the end of the year. Obesity parameters including body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumference, and waist hip ratio (WHR) were analyzed. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for pairwise comparison of traits from the beginning to the end of the year in the absence of adjustments. Linear regression was used with covariate adjustments to investigate the effect of ethnicity on obesity traits. Results A significant increase in weight by 1.49 kg (95%CI: 1.13–1.85) was observed over the academic year in the overall analyzed sample. This was accompanied by significant gains in BMI, waist and hip circumferences, and WHR. Ethnicity stratified analysis indicated significant increase in all investigated obesity traits in East Asians and all traits, but WHR, in South Asians. White-Caucasians only displayed significant increases in weight and BMI. Body weight and hip circumference were significantly lower in East Asians compared to white-Caucasians at baseline. However, East Asians displayed a significantly larger increase in mean BMI and weight compared to white-Caucasians after first-year. South Asians displayed larger waist circumference at baseline compared to East Asians and larger WHR compared to white-Caucasians. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that ethnicity has an impact on obesity traits in first-year university students. Universities should take ethnicity into account while implementing effective obesity prevention programs to promote healthy and active lifestyles for students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanmay Sharma
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Baanu Manoharan
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Christine Langlois
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Rita E. Morassut
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - David Meyre
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Effect of living arrangement on anthropometric traits in first-year university students from Canada: The GENEiUS study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241744. [PMID: 33156864 PMCID: PMC7647062 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The transition to university often involves a change in living arrangement for many first-year students. While weight gain during first year of university has been well documented, Canadian literature on the impact of living arrangement within this context is limited. The objective of this investigation was to explore the effect of living arrangement on anthropometric traits in first-year university students from Ontario, Canada. Methods 244 first-year undergraduate students were followed longitudinally with data collected early in the academic year and towards the end of the year. Anthropometric parameters including weight, waist and hip circumference, body mass index (BMI), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were examined. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for pairwise comparison of traits from the beginning to end the year in the absence of adjustments. Additionally, linear regression models with covariate adjustments were used to investigate effect of the type of living arrangement (i.e. on-campus, off-campus, or family home) on the aforementioned traits. Results In the overall sample, a significant weight increase of 1.55kg (95% CI: 1.24–1.86) was observed over the school year (p<0.001), which was also accompanied by significant gains in BMI, and waist and hip circumferences (p<0.001). At baseline, no significant differences were found between people living on-campus, off-campus, and at home with family. Stratified analysis of change by type of living arrangement indicated significant gains across all traits among students living on-campus (p<0.05), and significant gains in weight and BMI among students living at home with family. Additionally, a comparison between living arrangements revealed that students living on campus experienced significantly larger gains in weight and BMI compared to students living off-campus (p<0.05). Conclusion Our findings indicate that living arrangement is associated with different weight gain trajectories in first-year university students.
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Tran DMT, Sojobi A. Review of the Scientific Literature on Young Adults Related to Cardiovascular Disease Intervention. Asian Pac Isl Nurs J 2020; 5:35-46. [PMID: 32704527 PMCID: PMC7373252 DOI: 10.31372/20200501.1084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Many young adults are at risk for cardiovascular disease related to their behavioral choices. Irresponsible alcohol consumption, tobacco smoking, sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary habits, and excessive weight gain are some of the behaviors that put young adults at risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified that 15% of young adults are diagnosed with chronic illnesses related to their behavioral choices. The purpose of this review is to identify, in the literature, interventions that are currently available to young adults and evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of those interventions. An extensive electronic search was conducted using CINAHL, EBSCOhost, Cochrane, PubMed, and Google Scholar. A total of 130 articles were identified and 28 articles met the inclusion criteria. Three main interventions were identified for young adults: personalized interventions, technology-based interventions, and educational/behavioral interventions. The interventions were all effective to different degrees and interventions were most effective when they were combined. This review impacts in what manner nurses and health care providers deliver health promotion, prevention, and management of cardiovascular risk factors in young adults; in particular, nurses play a key role in lifestyle modifications including diet and exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angela Sojobi
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
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Female Collegiate Dancers Body Composition, Macronutrient and Micronutrient Intake Over Two Academic Years: A Longitudinal Analysis. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2020; 5:jfmk5010017. [PMID: 33467233 PMCID: PMC7739405 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk5010017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Collegiate dancers face unique challenges to maintain a lean aesthetic, optimal diet, and a high-performance level due to the various stressors in college. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in body composition (BC) and diet over two years. Participants (N = 17, 19.6 ± 1.6 years) completed two laboratory sessions per semester. Sessions included height and weight, BC, dietary intake, and a health history questionnaire. Regardless of rigorous dance training and variations in the academic calendar, no significant changes in BC or diet were observed within semesters of over two years. BMI was normal (24.9 ± 4.1 kg/m2) with fat mass exceeding 30% at all timepoints. Fat mass was negatively correlated with carbohydrate, fat, and protein intake (g/kg/day; r = -0.291, p = 0.004; r = -0.372, p < 0.0001; r = -0.398, p < 0.0001; respectively). Energy intake was within the recommended daily allowance (2040 ± 710 kcal/day), however may be insufficient for an active dance population. Protein (1.1 ± 0.5 g/kg), carbohydrate (3.7 ± 1.6 g/kg), calcium (835 ± 405 mg/day), iron (17 ± 15 mg/day), and potassium (1628 ± 1736 mg/day) intake fell below recommendations for an active population. Alterations in dance training and the demands of the academic calendar may be contributing to suboptimal dietary intake and BC in female collegiate dancers.
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Impact of Dining Hall Structural Changes on Food Choices: A Pre-Post Observational Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17030913. [PMID: 32024203 PMCID: PMC7037433 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17030913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Change that benefits individuals and organisations while delivering health outcomes and benefits society requires a research focus that extends ‘beyond the individual’ to environment shapers. A pre-post observational study assessed two food provision structural changes to understand the role food service environments had on food selections. Diners were observed prior to (lunch n = 1294; dinner n = 787) and following (lunch n = 1230; dinner n = 843) structural changes in a buffet-style dining room—including provision of a healthy convenient meal alternative for lunch (healthy lunch bag), and a pleasurable dinner (make-your-own pizza). Food choices shifted with 19% of diners opting for a healthy lunch bag and 29% of diners selecting a pizza dinner, moving away from the existing buffet. Examination of selections by those continuing to select from the concurrent buffet selections established that the availability of healthy alternatives in the buffet partially explained food choices, moderating any observed changes in food selections. The food service sector is a promising avenue through which dietary behaviours can be improved. Further studies, particularly those that measure selections over the longer term, and that include measures of satisfaction and profit, are needed.
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Bihuniak JD, Bryant T, Kleiman J, Rotondo M, Decoteau J, Haisley S, Monserrate D, Cunningham M, MacKenzie A, Dauz S, Ippolito R, Fernandes N, LaRose JG, Leahey TM. Behavioural weight loss treatment preferences of college students with overweight and obesity. Clin Obes 2020; 10:e12343. [PMID: 31613059 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The college environment increases risk of weight gain in young adults with overweight/obesity. Behavioural weight loss interventions are proven effective, however, young adults' adherence to such programs is poor. The purpose of the study was to determine weight loss treatment preferences of 2- and 4-year college students for the development of population-specific interventions. Students with a BMI ≥25, between 18 and 24 years of age, and enrolled in one of four institutions were recruited. A questionnaire was developed to assess students' preferences and was administered via Qualtrics. BMI was calculated from objectively assessed height and weight measurements. Descriptive analyses, chi-square, Fisher's Exact Test, Mann-Whitney U test and Cramer's V were performed. Participants (n = 133, age = 20.2 ± 1.8) predominately identified as female (70%), non-Hispanic (68%) and Black/African American (32%) or White (32%). Fifty-five percent met criteria for obesity. Most students preferred session length of ≤1 hour (78%), for meetings to be held on a weekday (70%) and for both a peer and a professional to co-facilitate meetings (61%). Preferences for health outcomes and physical activity monitoring, type of physical activity, frequency of dietary monitoring, physical activity tracking method and interest in financial incentives to promote core treatment components differed between institutions. Heterogeneity in program preferences by college environment should be considered when designing weight loss interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D Bihuniak
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Tiffany Bryant
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Jennifer Kleiman
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Megan Rotondo
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Jessica Decoteau
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Samantha Haisley
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, New York, New York
- Health Sciences Department, LaGuardia Community College, Long Island City, New York
| | - David Monserrate
- Health and Exercise Science Program, Manchester Community College, Manchester, Connecticut
| | - Michael Cunningham
- Health and Exercise Science Program, Manchester Community College, Manchester, Connecticut
| | - Allison MacKenzie
- Health and Exercise Science Program, Manchester Community College, Manchester, Connecticut
| | - Steve Dauz
- Health Sciences Department, LaGuardia Community College, Long Island City, New York
| | - Rosann Ippolito
- Health Sciences Department, LaGuardia Community College, Long Island City, New York
| | - Nicolle Fernandes
- Health Sciences Department, LaGuardia Community College, Long Island City, New York
| | - Jessica G LaRose
- Department of Health Behavior and Policy, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Tricia M Leahey
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
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Sa J, Choe S, Cho BY, Chaput JP, Kim G, Park CH, Chung J, Choi Y, Nelson B, Kim Y. Relationship between sleep and obesity among U.S. and South Korean college students. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:96. [PMID: 31969131 PMCID: PMC6977299 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8182-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about the relationship between sleep and obesity in young adults, particularly college students. This study examined the relationship between sleep (i.e., sleep duration and quality) and obesity in a large and diverse binational sample of college students. Methods Analyses were based on a 40-item paper survey from 2016/2017 to 2017/2018 academic years, with a 72% response rate. The samples were 1578 college students aged 18–25 years from five universities (two in the U.S. and three in South Korea). Weight and height were measured objectively; other measures (e.g., health behaviors) were self-reported. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the association between sleep duration and independent variables (race/nationality, gender, and BMI). Poisson regression was used to examine the relationship between sleep quality and independent variables. Results Overall, blacks had a higher adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of short sleep (< 7 h/night) than whites (AOR = 1.74, P < .01); overweight participants had a higher AOR of short sleep than normal weight participants (AOR = 1.52, P < .01); and obese participants had a higher AORs of both short and long sleep (> 9 h/night) (AOR = 1.67, P < .01; AOR = 1.79, P < .05, respectively). Among men, being black, overweight, and obesity were associated with short sleep (P < .05), whereas only obesity was related to short sleep among women (P < .05). In analyses stratified by race and nationality, overweight and obesity were related to short sleep among blacks only (P < .05). Overall, sleep quality (getting enough sleep to feel rested in the morning in the past 7 days) was worse in blacks and South Koreans than whites (P < .05), worse in women than men (P < .05), and worse in participants with obesity than normal weight participants (P < .05). Conclusions Obesity was associated with both short (< 7 h/night) and long sleep duration (> 9 h/night) and poor sleep quality among all participants. In comparison with whites, blacks were more like to have short sleep, and blacks and South Koreans had worse sleep quality. Further investigations using a larger sample of college students in multiple countries may be helpful to identify target populations who are at a greater risk of obesity and sleep problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaesin Sa
- College of Education and Health Sciences, Touro University, Vallejo, CA, USA
| | - Siyoung Choe
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA
| | - Beom-Young Cho
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Gyurin Kim
- Department of Physical Education, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chae-Hee Park
- Department of Sport and Healthy Aging, Korea National Sport University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Joon Chung
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yoojin Choi
- Department of Secondary and Physical Education Salisbury University, Salisbury, MD, USA
| | - Beatrice Nelson
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD, USA
| | - Yongkyu Kim
- Department of Physical Education, Daegu University, Daegu, South Korea.
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Fazzino TL, Serwatka C, Schneider H, Sullivan D. A systematic review of the methodology used to study weight change among young adults attending college. Eat Behav 2019; 35:101333. [PMID: 31491664 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2019.101333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young adulthood is a sensitive developmental period that is high-risk for weight gain. Ample research has focused on weight gain among college students; however meta-analyses report <2 kg pooled estimates of weight gain, which is in the range of normal weight fluctuation, and there is disagreement in the literature regarding common predictors of weight gain. These limitations pose a major barrier to targeted obesity prevention efforts. The present study reviewed the literature assessing college weight gain with a focus on three methodological factors that could contribute to variability in the literature: 1) use of an evidence-supported definition of weight gain (>2 kg or ≥3%); 2) weight measurement protocols; and 3) including weight/BMI in analyses of predictors of weight change. METHODS Three databases were systematically searched. Studies were included in the review if the primary goal was to determine magnitude of weight change and/or test predictors of weight change during the academic year, and they reported weight at 2+ time points. RESULTS A total of 81 studies were included in the review. Most studies (90%; 73/81) did not use an evidence-supported definition of weight gain. Studies that used an evidence-supported definition reported estimates of gain among students who gained weight to be beyond the range of normal weight fluctuation (4.0-7.5 kg), and occurred in a subset (<32%) of participants. Studies that did not use an evidence-supported definition reported weight gain to be 2.0-4.5 kg, and occurred in the majority >50% of students. Most studies that measured height and weight (71%; 42/59) did not use a fasting protocol and the majority (63%; 37/59) did not conduct measurements at the same time of day. A higher percentage of studies that used a standardized measurement protocol reported weight change >2 kg (44% vs 20%). A lower percentage of studies that used a standardized measurement protocol had substantial variability in weight change estimates (50% vs 69%). The majority of studies that tested predictors of weight gain (74%; 42/57) included weight/BMI as a covariate in analyses. CONCLUSIONS The body of literature examining weight change among college students suffers from limitations that may have contributed to overestimations in the percent of students who gain weight, and simultaneous underestimations of the magnitude of weight gain among those who gain weight. Weight gain may be limited to approximately 30% of students in a sample, and weight gain among this subset of students may be substantial (>4 kg). Going forward, use of both an evidence-supported weight gain definition and fasting measurement protocol will likely enhance accuracy in characterizing weight gain among college students, as well as improve researchers' ability to detect important predictors of weight gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tera L Fazzino
- Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, United States of America; Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, University of Kansas, United States of America.
| | - Catherine Serwatka
- Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, United States of America; Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, University of Kansas, United States of America
| | - Heather Schneider
- Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, United States of America; Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, University of Kansas, United States of America
| | - Debra Sullivan
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Kansas Medical Center, United States of America
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Mooyaart JE, Liefbroer AC, Billari FC. Becoming obese in young adulthood: the role of career-family pathways in the transition to adulthood for men and women. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1511. [PMID: 31718621 PMCID: PMC6852731 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7797-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the transition to adulthood many young adults become obese for the first time in their lives, yet relatively little research has examined why people in this life phase become obese. This study examines what career and family life-course pathways during the transition to adulthood are related to developing obesity in young adulthood. METHODS We use data from the NLSY97, a U.S. nationally representative panel survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics between 1997 to 2013 (N = 4688), and apply multichannel sequence analysis in order to identify clusters of typical career-family pathways during the transition to adulthood (age 17 to 27), and subsequently investigate whether these pathways are associated with becoming obese at the end of young adulthood (age 28), using logistic regression. We control for obesity at age 17 and family background factors (race, parental education, parental income, and family structure). To take into account the fact that the transition to adulthood has a different meaning for men and for women, we also interact career-family clusters with gender. RESULTS For women, pathways characterized by college education, early home leaving, and postponement of family formation decrease the probability of becoming obese. For men, pathways characterized by early marriage increase the probability of becoming obese. CONCLUSIONS The results highlight the importance of gender differences in how career and family pathways are related to becoming obese in young adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarl E. Mooyaart
- Department of Sociology, McGill University, Peterson Hall Building 3460 McTavish Street, Montréal, QC H3A 0E6 Canada
| | - Aart C. Liefbroer
- Netherlands Interdisciplinary Demographic Institute, Lange Houtstraat 19, 2511 CV The Hague, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG) / University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Department of Sociology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Francesco C. Billari
- Department of Social and Political Sciences and Carlo F. Dondena Centre for Research on Social Dynamics and Public Policies, Bocconi University, Via Röntgen 1, 20136 Milan, MI Italy
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43
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Stamp E, Crust L, Swann C. Mental toughness and dietary behaviours in undergraduate university students. Appetite 2019; 142:104389. [PMID: 31376439 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2019.104389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Dietary behaviour of university students is a growing concern and a potential contributor to weight gain during university studies. Individual differences may be one factor that influences how students respond and adapt when entering a new environment. Mental toughness (MT) is an individual difference which has previously been found to be significantly and positively related to health behaviours (e.g., physical activity, psychological wellbeing), thus it was hypothesised that MT would predict eating behaviours of university students. Undergraduate students (n = 167) completed an online questionnaire to assess MT and eating behaviours. Students were included from all three years of undergraduate study and from a range of courses at nine UK institutions. Pearson correlations were conducted between MT variables and eating behaviour variables. The MT component life control displayed the strongest relationship with healthy eating (r = 0.24, p < .001). Regression analysis found weak relationships between the components of MT that were related to eating behaviours. Thus, factors other than MT may play a greater role influencing eating behaviours of university students. It may be that MT is more important in adhering to programmes to change dietary behvaiours, rather than simply eating healthily.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lee Crust
- University of Lincoln, Brayford Way, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Christian Swann
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, Australia; Centre for Athlete Development, Experience & Performance, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, Australia
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'Oh God, I Have to Eat Something, But Where Can I Get Something Quickly?'-A Qualitative Interview Study on Barriers to Healthy Eating among University Students in Germany. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11102440. [PMID: 31614957 PMCID: PMC6835904 DOI: 10.3390/nu11102440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthy eating can prevent individuals across all age groups from developing overweight/obesity and non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, unhealthy eating habits (e.g., a high level of fast food consumption) have been found to be widespread among university students. Thus, it seems necessary to develop prevention strategies to improve students' eating habits. However, to ensure that such strategies are successful, it is important that they fit the needs of the target population. By conducting qualitative interviews with students (n = 20), we aimed to get a deeper understanding of barriers to healthy eating. Students were asked about barriers to healthy eating and to suggest possible ideas that could improve their eating behavior in the future. Our findings revealed that students are especially affected by time-related barriers (e.g., a lack of time due to university commitment) and environmental barriers (e.g., a lack of cheap, tasty, and healthy meal options at the university canteen). Time-related barriers were also related to motivational barriers (e.g., being too lazy to cook after a busy day at university). In addition, knowledge/information-related barriers, social-support-related barriers, and transition-related barriers emerged from our interviews. The variety of barriers addressed and the different views on some of these, indicate that various strategies seem to be needed to improve the eating behavior among university students and to prevent them from gaining weight and developing non-communicable diseases in the future.
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45
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Lentz TA, Brown C. Mindfulness and health behaviors in college students: The moderating role of sleep. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2019; 67:505-514. [PMID: 30395778 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2018.1497638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To examine the moderating effects of subjective sleep quality (SSQ) and sleep duration on the relationships between mindfulness and health behaviors (i.e. nutrition and exercise) among undergraduate students. The unique influence of the five facets (i.e. factors) of mindfulness (i.e. observing, describing, acting with awareness, nonreactivity to inner experience and nonjudging of inner experience) on students' health behaviors was also explored. Participants: Three hundred fifty seven undergraduate students enrolled in U.S. colleges. Methods: Students completed an online survey. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to determine whether SSQ moderated the relationship between mindfulness and nutrition behavior. Results: SSQ moderated the relationship between mindfulness and nutrition behavior. The observe facet of mindfulness was the most predictive of nutrition behavior, whereas the observe and describe facets were the most predictive of exercise behavior. Conclusions: Interventions that target mindfulness and sleep quality may help promote healthy eating and increased exercise engagement in college students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chris Brown
- a University of Missouri-Kansas City , Kansas City , Missouri , USA
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46
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Cooking and Meal Planning as Predictors of Fruit and Vegetable Intake and BMI in First-Year College Students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16142462. [PMID: 31373293 PMCID: PMC6679210 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16142462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to determine if cooking skills and meal planning behaviors are associated with greater fruit and vegetable intake and lower body mass index (BMI) in first-year college students who are at risk for excessive weight gain. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using baseline data from a multi-state research project aimed at preventing weight gain in first-year college students. Cooking type, frequency and confidence, self-instruction for healthful mealtime behavior intention, self-regulation of healthful mealtime behavior, and cup equivalents of fruits and vegetables (FV) were measured using validated surveys. BMI was calculated from measured height and weight. First-year students (n = 1108) considered at risk for weight gain from eight universities completed baseline assessments within the first month of entering college. Multiple linear regression was used to determine associations among independent variables of cooking patterns, meal planning behaviors, and dependent variables of fruit and vegetable intake and BMI, after controlling for the influence of sex. Cooking more frequently, cooking with greater skills, and practicing meal planning behaviors are associated with greater fruit and vegetable intake and lower BMI in first-year college students. Interventions aimed at improving health in college students may be enhanced by incorporating cooking and meal planning components.
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47
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First-year university is associated with greater body weight, body composition and adverse dietary changes in males than females. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0218554. [PMID: 31269047 PMCID: PMC6608928 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0218554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The transition from high school to university life is a critical time for change, often accompanied by the adoption of negative lifestyle habits including unhealthy nutrition. The purpose of this longitudinal study was to identify sex-specific changes in dietary intake and diet quality, and associated changes in body weight and composition during first-year university. Methods Three-hundred and one students (n = 229 females) completed food frequency questionnaires, and had their body weight, body composition, waist and hip circumference measured at the beginning and end of first-year university. Repeated-measures ANOVAs with covariate adjustments were used with variables for sex (between group) and time (within group) to assess these changes. Results Students gained body weight and fat during the year (p<0.001). Body mass Index (BMI) also significantly increased (p = 0.032). Males gained more weight (Male:3.8 kg; Female:1.8 kg), fat mass (Male:2.7 kg; Female:1.5 kg), lean mass (Male:1.1 kg; Female:0.3 kg) and BMI (Male:1.2 kg/m2; Female:0.7 kg/m2; p≤0.001 for interactions), and had greater increases in waist circumference (Male:2.7 cm; Female:1.1 cm) and waist:hip ratio (Male:0.02; Female:0.004; p<0.05 for interactions) than females. Energy intake remained the same over the year in both sexes, accompanied by an increase in alcohol (ethanol) in both sexes but more so in males than females (p = 0.011 interaction). Diet quality decreased, characterized by a reduced intake of healthy foods/beverages (p<0.05) in both sexes such as yogurt, cheese, oatmeal, breads, rice, pasta, vegetables, green salad, fruits, steak, fish, nuts and milk, and an increased consumption of unhealthy foods and beverages (p<0.05) such as donuts/cakes, fried chicken, beer and liquor. Significant interactions between sexes indicated that males displayed a more adverse and lower quality eating pattern which included greater intakes of donuts/cakes, fried chicken, beer and liquor, as well as decreased intakes of eggs and vegetables compared to females. Lastly, some dietary intake changes significantly correlated with fat mass and waist circumference change indicating that poor dietary choices were associated with increased adiposity. Conclusions Our study demonstrated that during first-year university, both male and female students undergo unfavorable changes in nutrition and body weight/composition that significantly differ between sexes, with males showing more adverse changes. Our results can be used to inform effective sex-specific strategies and interventions to improve dietary habits during the transition to university life.
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Castillo I, Solano S, Sepúlveda AR. A controlled study of an integrated prevention program for improving disordered eating and body image among Mexican university students: A 3-month follow-up. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2019; 27:541-556. [PMID: 30997721 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Obesity and eating disorders are currently two significant health problems in Mexico. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of an integrated prevention program on university students through an exploratory controlled study that targeted specific predisposing factors of disordered eating and obesity related to healthy eating, physical activity, body image satisfaction and perceived pressure to be thin. A total of 388 university students participated (264 females and 124 males) and were assigned either to an intervention condition or one of the two control conditions (study skills vs. nonintervention); each comprised of a total of eight workshops lasting 90 min. The program did not have any effect on the male students. In contrast, there was an interaction effect for time and group in thin-ideal internalization (η2 = 0.04) and in disordered eating attitudes/behaviours (η2 = 0.03); both showed improvements over time only among the female sample. Though, the effect size was insignificant, which means that the effectiveness of this integrated prevention program was limited. Integrated prevention approaches to eating and weight-related problems are still nascent in Mexico, and further research in this field is warranted so as to fine tune future prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iraís Castillo
- Department of Biological and Health Psychology, School of Psychology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,School of Nutrition, Autonomous University of Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - Santos Solano
- Department of Biological and Health Psychology, School of Psychology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana R Sepúlveda
- Department of Biological and Health Psychology, School of Psychology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Lyzwinski LN, Caffery L, Bambling M, Edirippulige S. The Mindfulness App Trial for Weight, Weight-Related Behaviors, and Stress in University Students: Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2019; 7:e12210. [PMID: 30969174 PMCID: PMC6479283 DOI: 10.2196/12210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background University students are at risk of weight gain during their studies. Key factors related to weight gain in this population include unhealthy weight-related behaviors because of stress. Mindfulness holds promise for weight management. However, there has not been any previous trial that has explored the effectiveness of a student-tailored mindfulness app for stress, weight-related behaviors, and weight. There is limited evidence that current mindfulness apps use evidence-based mindfulness techniques. A novel app was developed that combined evidence-based, mindfulness-based stress reduction and mindful eating (ME) techniques that were tailored to university students, with student-relevant themes for targeting weight behaviors, weight, and stress. Objectives The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness, acceptability, and feasibility of a student-tailored mindfulness app for weight, weight-related behaviors, and stress. Testing this app in a rigorous randomized controlled trial (RCT) for these outcomes is a novelty and contribution to this emerging field. Methods A 2-arm RCT of an 11-week duration was undertaken at the University of Queensland. Students were either randomized to the mindfulness app (n=45) or to a behavioral self-monitoring electronic diary (e-diary; n=45) for diet and exercise. Analysis of covariance was used to compare differences in weight, stress, mindfulness, ME, physical activity, and eating behaviors between both groups. Results Neither the mindfulness app group nor the e-diary group lost weight and there were no differences between the groups at follow-up. The mindfulness app group had significantly lower stress levels (P=.02) (adherers only), lower emotional eating (P=.02), and uncontrolled eating (P=.02) as well as higher mindfulness (P≤.001) and ME levels overall (P≤.001). The e-diary group had higher metabolic equivalents of moderate activity levels (P≤.01). However, the effect sizes were small. Regular adherence to mindfulness exercises in the app was low in the group. The majority of students (94%) liked the app and found it to be acceptable. Compared with other exercises, the most helpful reported meditation was the short breathing exercise observing the breath (39.4% [13/33] preferred it). This was the first RCT that tested a mindfulness app for weight and weight-related behaviors in students. The modest level of user adherence likely contributes to the lack of effect on weight loss. However, there was a small, albeit promising, effect on weight-related eating behavior and stress. Conclusions A mindfulness app demonstrated effectiveness for stress, eating behaviors, mindfulness, and ME, but the effect sizes were small. Future studies should be conducted over longer periods of time and with greater participant compliance. Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Trial Registry ACTRN12616001349437; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=371370 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/761cc2K6ft)
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Liam Caffery
- University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Centre for Online Health, Woloongabba, Australia
| | - Matthew Bambling
- University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Centre for Online Health, Woloongabba, Australia
| | - Sisira Edirippulige
- University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Centre for Online Health, Woloongabba, Australia
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50
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Fazzino TL, Forbush K, Sullivan D, Befort CA. A Prospective Study of Alcohol Use Patterns and Short-Term Weight Change in College Freshmen. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2019; 43:1016-1026. [PMID: 30889279 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transition to college is a developmentally sensitive time in which freshmen are at high risk for engaging in heavy drinking and experiencing changes in weight and body composition. The study tested prospective associations among drinking patterns (weekly drinks, heavy drinking occasions/month) and alcohol calorie intake on weight and waist circumference change over the first year of college. METHODS College freshmen (N = 103) were randomly selected from a pool of eligible students to participate at the beginning of the academic year. The sample was comprised of 52% males, 46% of individuals identifying as racial or ethnic minority, and 45% students with at-risk drinking as defined by the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption questions. Students engaging in daily risky drinking (n = 2) were excluded. Participants attended 3 visits during the academic year during which they provided weight and waist circumference measurements and completed assessments about drinking, dietary intake, and physical activity. RESULTS Weight gain (>2.3 kg) occurred in 28% of participants. In linear mixed models, drinking patterns and alcohol calorie intake were not associated with weight or waist circumference changes within individuals, when controlling for demographic and energy balance variables. Drinking patterns and alcohol calorie intake did not account for differences in anthropometric measurements between participants, when controlling for covariates. CONCLUSIONS Alcohol use did not explain the anthropometric changes observed in a sample well represented by freshmen engaging in risky drinking (and excluding those with daily risky drinking) during the academic year. Drinking may not contribute to short-term weight gain among freshmen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tera L Fazzino
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health , University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Kelsie Forbush
- Department of Psychology , University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas
| | - Debra Sullivan
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics , University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Christie A Befort
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health , University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
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