The freshman weight gain phenomenon revisited

Exploring the dietary changes and support required for healthy eating with female students at UK universities: Findings from focus group discussions

Students' diets often change when leaving home and starting university due to increased responsibility for their diet and finances. However, there is limited qualitative research with students at UK universities about how their diets change during the transition to, and whilst at university and the reasons for these changes. The aim of this study was to qualitatively explore three topics: 1) specific dietary changes reported by students at UK universities, 2) reasons for these dietary changes and 3) how students can be supported to eat more healthily. Fifteen students (100% female, 54% white) across different academic years (60% undergraduate and 40% postgraduate) from the Universities of Reading and Hertfordshire were recruited. Four online focus groups were conducted, ranging from groups of 2 to 6 participants, using a semi-structured topic guide. Discussions were recorded and professionally transcribed. Transcripts were coded and themes derived for each research topic using qualitative analysis software. After joining university, dietary changes commonly reported by the students included either increased or decreased fruit and vegetable intake, increased snacking behaviour, and increased alcohol and convenience food consumption. Common reasons for changes included limited budget, time management struggles, a lack of cooking skills, and peer influence. Students suggested that reduced cost of healthy foods on campus and cooking classes to learn new skills could help them to adopt a healthier diet. These suggestions could be used to guide future healthy eating interventions for university students.

Nutrition Knowledge Among Students in an Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Is Inadequate and Associated With Residence

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the nutrition knowledge and dietary habits of students at an Historically Black College and University.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey with 297 participants was conducted online using Qualtrics. An adapted questionnaire was used to obtain general nutrition knowledge. Descriptive analyses and binary logistic regression were conducted.

RESULTS

The average nutrition knowledge score was 55.0% ± 46.9%, indicating inadequacy, and was significantly associated with dietary habits (P = 0.017). Nutrition knowledge was significantly associated with age, ethnicity, marital status, work status, and residence (P < 0.05). Consumer and dietary habits scored 3.1 ± 1.6 out of 5, with the lowest score for choosing fat-free or low-fat milk. Residence significantly predicted nutrition knowledge; students living with family exhibited higher odds (odds ratio, 7.21; 95% confidence interval, 2.13-24.39) of adequate knowledge compared with those in the campus residence hall.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

These findings can guide nutrition interventions for college students, with future research needed to explore how residence impacts nutrition knowledge and habits.

Ultra-processed foods and plant-based alternatives impair nutritional quality of omnivorous and plant-forward dietary patterns in college students

The health benefits of a plant-based diet may be outweighed by an increased consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and plant-based alternatives. This study compares diet quality (intakes of protein, saturated fatty acids, sugar, fiber, and micronutrients) and nutritional status (prevalence of low holotranscobalamin and ferritin levels) among different dietary patterns: 22.5% vegans, 46.5% vegetarians, 31% omnivores in 142 first-year college students (20 ± 1.6 years, BMI 21.9 ± 3.1 kg/m², 83% female). Intakes of vitamin B12, folate, iron, zinc, and calcium were on average below reference values, especially in vegans and vegetarians. However, the prevalence of low holotranscobalamin and ferritin levels did not differ between the dietary groups, presumably due to supplementation. Irrespective of the diet, UPF contributed to 49% of daily energy intake. UPF exhibited a lower content of protein, fiber, vitamin B2, vitamin B12, folate, zinc and calcium compared to processed foods (all p < 0.001). Plant-based alternatives contained more fiber and less saturated fatty acids whereas the content of protein and micronutrients was lower compared with animal products (all p < 0.05). In conclusion, UPF consumption contributes to the inadequate intake of many micronutrients by young adults. This is further aggravated by plant-forward eating patterns including the consumption of plant-based alternatives.

Prevalence of overweight and obesity and their impact on academic performance and psychological well-being among university students in 2024 in Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

The prevalence and impact of obesity and overweight is one of the main concerns among researchers worldwide. There are several consequences of overweight and obesity among students in developing countries like Bangladesh. Therefore, this study aims to explore the prevalence and impact of overweight or obesity on individuals' self-esteem and academic performance among university students in Bangladesh.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This study is based on primary data that was collected from 600 students of Jahangirnagar University using a well-structured questionnaire. The questionnaire included demographic information, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-7). The summary statistics, the Fisher exact test, the Chi-square test, and the Pearson correlation matrix were computed. A logistic regression model assessed the relationship between low self-esteem and other variables such as demographic characteristics, BMI status, and physical activities.

RESULTS

The findings indicate that 38.2% of the students are overweight or obese, and the prevalence rate is high among males. The lowest academic performance across all disciplines is observed among obese students. A negative correlation is observed between BMI and self-esteem (r = -0.41) and academic performance is negatively linked with overweight or obese (r = -0.26) Results depict that overweight/obese students are 7.11 times more likely to have low self-esteem (AOR: 7.11, 95% CI: 4.59-11.02) compared to normal students.

CONCLUSIONS

Overweight and obese students are more prone to lower academic performance and low self-esteem, considering physical inactivity and irregular dietary patterns. Therefore, university authorities ought to encourage students to engage in physical activities and should create awareness among students about the beneficial effects of nutritious foods and the importance of physical exercise.

A participatory research to assess how a student citizens' assembly can facilitate the co-creation of nutrition interventions in higher education settings

BACKGROUND

The transition period from adolescence to early adulthood is critical for developing new nutritional behaviors, making higher education students an important target group for public health nutrition interventions. Given the complexity of nutrition-related behaviors and their various determinants, involving the student population (the future beneficiaries of interventions) and the partners engaged in their implementation when designing campus nutrition interventions is essential. Citizens' assemblies are deliberative processes which are more and more frequently organized to co-create solutions to complex problems. This study aims 1) to design and implement a student citizens' assembly using participatory research methods, 2) to describe its process and evaluate its transferability, 3) to evaluate changes in dietary habits, knowledge and citizen practices among students participating in this assembly.

METHODS

This study will take place at a French university (University Sorbonne Paris Nord, USPN) located in socio-economically disadvantaged suburbs of Paris. The student citizens' assembly will gather a mini-public of 30 students enrolled at the time of the study and a co-creation team of academic and non-academic partners involved in student life, nutrition, physical activity, or public policies. The aim of the assembly is to co-create a set of concrete proposals that would enhance USPN students' access to sustainable diets and physical activity. The protocol is based on a continuous process evaluation and a pre-post design among the mini-public. A mixed-method framework combining quantitative and qualitative approaches will be developed. This study will make use of (i) field observations of the intervention process and transferability, (ii) data collected by questionnaires on pre- and post- dietary habits, knowledge and citizen practices of the mini-public, and (iii) pre-post interviews with a subsample of the same mini-public.

DISCUSSION

Relying on participatory research methods, this study will provide new insights into involving higher education students and diverse partners in co-creating campus nutrition interventions. Through the collaborative work of researchers, higher education students, university representatives, public institutions, and local and community actors, this study will provide evidence-based guidance for designing innovative and contextually-relevant nutrition interventions in the higher education setting.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This research was registered at the ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT06580795; registration date: 2024-08-30; https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov/study/NCT06580795 ).

Body mass index trajectories and their predictors in undergraduate students from Canada: Results from the GENEiUS study

Objective: To explore the patterns and predictors of body mass index (BMI) change among undergraduate students from Ontario (Canada). Participants: 68 undergraduate students were followed longitudinally for 3 years with anthropometric data collected bi-annually. Methods: BMI measurements were plotted to generate individual BMI trajectory curves, which were categorized, based on the observed trajectory pattern. Within and between group comparisons of BMI were conducted via nonparametric paired tests. The association of baseline BMI, sex, and ethnicity with BMI trajectory type was assessed using multinomial logistic regression. Results: Four BMI trajectory types were observed: "stable weight" (n = 15, 22.1%), "weight gain" (n = 30, 44.1%), "weight loss" (n = 12, 17.6%), and "weight cycling" (n = 11, 16.2%) trajectories. Higher baseline BMI was significantly associated with the "weight gain," "weight loss," and the "weight cycling" trajectories as compared to the "stable weight" trajectory type. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate an association between high baseline BMI and "nonstable" subsequent BMI change patterns among Canadian students.

Improving student diet and food security in higher education using participatory and co-creation approaches: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Higher education students are an important target group for public health nutrition interventions. When designing tailored and contextually relevant interventions, participatory and co-creation approaches are increasingly recognized as promising but their use and effectiveness has not been assessed in this type of population. We systematically reviewed interventions aiming to improve dietary quality and/or food security in higher education settings with the aims 1) to identify and describe their participatory and co-creation approaches and 2) to compare the effectiveness of interventions using or not using participatory and co-creation approaches.

METHODS

Our search in PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, EMBASE was performed in January 2023 and yielded 3658 unique records, out of which 42 articles (66 interventions) were included. Effectiveness of interventions was assessed at the individual level (longitudinal evaluations) or at the group level (repeated cross-sectional evaluations). A five-level classification was used to describe a continuum of engagement from students and other partners in the intervention design and implementation: no participation (level one), consultation, co-production, co-design and co-creation (levels two to five). To synthetize effectiveness, comparisons were made between studies without participation (level one) or with participation (levels two-five).

RESULTS

Ten (24%) out of 42 studies used a participatory and co-creation approach (levels two-five). Studies using a participatory and co-creation approach reported a positive finding on individual-level outcome (i.e. overall diet quality or food group intake or food security) in 5/13 (38%) intervention arms (vs 13/31 or 42% for those without participation). Studies using a participatory and co-creation approach reported a positive finding on group-level outcomes (i.e. food choices in campus food outlets) in 4/7 (57%) (vs 8/23 or 35% in those without participation).

CONCLUSIONS

Participatory and co-creation approaches may improve the effectiveness of nutrition interventions in higher education settings but the level of evidence remains very limited. More research is warranted to identify best co-creation practices when designing, implementing and evaluating nutritional interventions in the higher education setting.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration number CRD42023393004.

Social media use and weight bias internalization: association moderated by age and weight perception

BACKGROUND

The current study examined whether weight perception or age moderated associations between time spent on image-based social media and weight bias internalization (WBI).

METHODS

Data come from the baseline visit of the Tracking Our Lives Study, a randomized control trial of college women (n = 200). Participants completed questionnaires assessing time spent on social media (continuous, overall and individual platforms Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat), WBI (continuous), weight perception (perceive their weight as "overweight" vs. do not perceive their weight as "overweight"), age (continuous, 18-49 years), and confounders (race/ethnicity, parent education, sexual orientation, and BMI). Adjusted zero-inflated Poisson regressions were performed to determine if weight perception and age moderated associations between time spent on image-based social media and WBI.

RESULTS

As expected, we found a positive association between overall time spent on image-based social media and WBI (β = 0.826, p < 0.001). In moderation analyses, the strength of the association was weakened among women who perceived their weight as "overweight" (β=-0.018, p = 0.006). Associations also weakened with age (β=-0.001, p < 0.001). The association between time spent on Instagram and WBI was also weakened with age (β=-0.014, p = 0.018), which was the only significant moderation found for individual social media platforms.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that image-based social media use is more strongly associated with increases in WBI among younger women.

Needs and interests regarding the lifestyle habits of students in a Canadian university

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.

Associations between health issues and food consumption with overweight and obesity in three university students minorities

Objective: To determine the presence of overweight and obesity among minorities, and the factors contributing to this weight disparity. Participants: The study comprises 3405 students including nonwhite, international, and first-generation college students. Methods: An online cross-sectional survey collected data on demographics, height, weight, self-health perception, overall sleep quality, progress in school, and food consumption. Three logistic regressions tested abnormal weight associations with health issues and food consumption. Results: Being 31 years-old or older, perception of health and consumption of ultra-processed food was significant with abnormal weight (BMI > 25). Only nonwhite and international students were correlated with ultra-processed and fast-food consumption respectively. Conclusion: Each minority presented vulnerabilities to high percentages of weights exceeding the appropriate rates of BMI. The high consumption of fast and ultra-processed foods makes it important to consider factors related to health perception in each minority group.

Physical Activity Among Medical Students at the University of Khartoum, Sudan, 2022: Knowledge, Practice, and Barriers

Introduction Physical inactivity is a highly prevalent modifiable risk factor for many diseases, including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, the leading causes of death. Many health institutes have issued and adopted guidelines and recommendations on physical activity. This study aims to study the knowledge, practice, and barriers of medical students enrolled at the University of Khartoum, Sudan, regarding physical activity. It aimed to assess the students' knowledge about physical activity, to determine the levels of physical activity and compare it with the WHO recommended levels and data from other countries, to compare the activity and sedentary levels between males and females, and to take a look on the barriers to physical activity. Methods An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum in December 2022. A total of 336 students were included using systematic random sampling. Data were collected using an online questionnaire that included the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ). Levels of physical activity were described and compared between males and females. Results Around 40.5% of the students achieved the recommended level of physical activity. The mean level of vigorous-intensity physical activity was 50.9 minutes/week (SD= 125.7), the mean level of moderate-intensity physical activity was 156.5 minutes/week (SD= 316.1), the mean level of total physical activity was 207 minutes/week (SD= 356). Between males and females, there was a significant mean difference in the level of vigorous-intensity physical activity and total physical activity. The mean level of sedentary behavior was 7.61 hours/day (SD= 4.62) with no significant difference between males and females (p=0.127). Students showed good knowledge about the cardiovascular and mental benefits of physical activity but not about its protective benefits against cancer. Only 19.4% knew the WHO-recommended levels of physical activity. The most common major barriers toward physical activity reported by the students were lack of time (43.8%), and lack of suitable facilities (31.3%) among others. Conclusion More than half (59.5%) of the students were insufficiently active. Levels of physical activity were significantly associated with the participants' sex but not their knowledge of the recommended levels of physical activity. Males showed higher levels of physical activity. Lack of time was the most common barrier to exercise. More knowledge and education about physical activity should be provided as well as suitable facilities.

Weight change predicts college adjustment and depressive symptoms among first-year college students

ObjectiveWeight change is common during the first year of college and may be related to different outcomes for men and women. This study examined the moderating effects of gender on the association between weight change and college adjustment and depressive symptoms. Participants: One-hundred and eighty-one 18-19-year-old college freshmen (56.9% female; 84.5% Caucasian). Methods: Students completed a one-time survey about demographics, weight, college adjustment, and depressive symptoms during their second semester of college. Results: Increased weight change was associated with fewer depressive symptoms for both men and women (p < .04). For men, increased weight change was associated with better overall college adjustment, more positivity about college, less negativity about college, and less homesickness (all p < .02). Conclusions: Universities could target men and women differently in regard to weight, college adjustment, and mental health to promote a positive college experience and optimal mental health.

Self-control and unhealthy body weight: The role of impulsivity and restraint

We examine the relationship between trait self-control and body weight. Data from a population representative household survey reveal that limited self-control is strongly associated with both unhealthy body weight and poorer subjective weight-related well-being. Those with limited self-control are characterized by reduced exercising, repeated dieting, unhealthier eating habits, and poorer nutrition. We propose an empirical method to isolate two facets of self-control limitations-high impulsivity and low restraint. Each has differential predictive power. Physical activity, dieting, and overall body weight are more strongly associated with restraint; impulsivity is relatively more predictive of when, where, and what people eat.

Impact of Smart Snacks Intervention on College Students' Vending Selections

OBJECTIVES

To place Smart Snacks in vending machines and determine if different sales strategies affect Smart Snack selection.

PARTICIPANTS

University students living in resident halls.

METHODS

Vending machines included 50% Smart Snacks and 50% non compliant snacks. Three sales strategies targeted student selection of Smart Snacks: Reduced price, signage, and nutrition education activities. Three-way ANOVA was used for analysis.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant three-way interaction on snack selection between sales strategy, study period, and snack type, F(4, 77) = 3.33, P = .01. There were no statistically significant simple two-way interaction between study period and sales strategy for either Smart Snack, F(1, 77) = 1.62, P = 0.18, or NC snack types, F(1, 77) = 2.02, P = 0.07.

CONCLUSIONS

Sales strategies did not affect Smart Snack selections. Advocates for healthier snacks in vending machines can align with university administrations to establish nutrient guidelines.

Understanding changes in eating behavior during the transition to university from a self-determination theory perspective: a systematic review

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.

Trend in health-related physical fitness for Chinese male first-year college students: 2013-2019

Introduction

Physical fitness is a health indicator contributing to the prevention of non-communicable diseases that threaten public health. Studies across a number of global populations indicate that physical fitness is generally declining. This study investigated the trend in physical fitness of Chinese male first-year college students from 2013 to 2019 to offer critical information for fostering individual and public health.

Methods

This study used archival data and a natural experiment design capturing 4 years of data prior to implementation of the Healthy China 2030 initiative and 3 years following. Physical fitness tests were based on the Chinese national student physical fitness standards for males including body mass index, vital capacity, standing-long-jump, sit-and-reach, pull-ups, 50 m sprint, and 1,000 m run. Because the physical fitness tests set different standards for males and females, female data will be reported separately. Data from a total of 3,185 Chinese male first-year college students from a private university in Hebei Province of China were included in the study. A one-way multivariate analysis of variance was used for analyzing the research data.

Results

The results indicated an overall significant difference in health-related physical fitness of Chinese male first-year college students, with scores on health indicators generally declining from 2013 to 2019. Despite improvement on some fitness variables in some years, performance on virtually all indicators was diminished compared to baseline years.

Discussion

These findings can contribute to the existing global literature in the field of public health showing general declines in physical fitness. Chinese universities have the opportunity to support Healthy China 2030 goals and cultivate individuals' physical fitness by offering physical education course that encourage college students to participate in moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activities in order to support physical fitness development.

Malnutrition, Eating Habits, Food Consumption, and Risk Factors of Malnutrition among Students at the University of Maroua, Cameroon

Context and objective. The time spent by young people at the university is generally marked by a profound transition in lifestyle and eating habits, which exposes them to several risk factors for diseases that will develop later such as chronic diseases related to diet. The objective of this study was to assess malnutrition and identify the particular risk factors for malnutrition among students at the University of Maroua. Methods. Three hundred and thirty students of both sexes, aged between 17 and 35 years old, were recruited from January to February 2018. Anthropometric parameters (weight, height, waist and hip circumference, and BMI) were measured, and an eating and lifestyle questionnaire was administered to each participant, as well as a 24-hour dietary recall. Results. The mean age of participants was 23.95 ± 3.67 years and BMI was 22.19 ± 2.78 kg/m2. Approximately 6.1% were underweight, 12.1% overweight, and 0.9% obese, and all age groups were affected. Concerning eating habits, low protein, fruit, and vegetable consumption were recorded among students. Cereals were the main source of carbohydrates consumed. Besides, 6% of them had a low dietary intake, 21% had a poorly diversified diet, and 2% were highly food insecure. The students’ daily macronutrient intake was within the recommended reference values, except for carbohydrates, which exceeded and represented 62.69± 13.84% of daily energy intake. Also, only 32.2% of respondents had adequate energy intake. A poorly diversified diet was associated with a high incidence of overweight. Conclusions. Both forms of malnutrition are indeed present among the students of the University of Maroua, and nutritional education for this young segment of the population will be essential to prevent complications associated with malnutrition in the working life.

Assessment of energy and nutrient intakes among undergraduate students attending a University in the North of England

Background: Unhealthy diets are typical of university students and are often thought to be unrepresentative of the general population. The main aim was to determine the energy and nutrient intakes of a large cohort of undergraduate university students; and to compare to gender-specific dietary reference values (DRVs) and nutrient data from the general population. Methodology: Data was collected from 639 university students aged 18-24 years who completed 4-day diet diaries. The energy and nutrient intake was determined and percentage energy values calculated and compared with dietary reference values (DRVs) and the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) and Family Food Statistics. Logistic regression methods were used to identify micronutrients functioning as predictors of exceeding DRVs. Results: Energy intakes were lower than the DRV. The percentage total energy values for protein, fat, saturated fat and carbohydrate exceeded DRVs but the percentage energy from alcohol was below the maximum 5%. The DRVs were met for vitamin C, thiamin, and sodium/salt. Iron and calcium intakes were met in males but not in females. Intakes for fibre and vitamin A were below the DRV. Student data was comparable to the NDNS, with the exception of alcohol, fibre, vitamin A, calcium and sodium/salt, which were all lower than the NDNS. Conclusions: This study contradicts the stereotypical assumption that students are following a high energy, fat, saturated fat, total sugars, salt and alcohol diet compared with the general population.

"It is really just brilliant to get credits for something that is so important to you!" Skills for Life: University students' perceptions of a planned dietary life skills course

OBJECTIVE

Universities have a role in educating and empowering students to become healthy and literate citizens of the 21st century society. The aim of this study was to explore university students' perceptions regarding the relevance and utility of a planned dietary life skills course.

DESIGN

Qualitative design including focus group discussions.

SETTING

A Norwegian university with participating undergraduate students from seven different disciplines.

METHOD

Data collection included 13 semi-structured focus group discussions involving 57 university students (35 women and 22 men aged 18-38 years). The focus group discussions were recorded and transcribed verbatim. To ensure in-depth knowledge of the research participants' thoughts and reflections, thematic analysis strategy was undertaken by a team of researchers.

RESULTS

When presented to the idea of a dietary life skills course as a university course, the students were mostly positive regarding its relevance and utility, however both motivators and barriers for attending were put forward. Some mentioned potential academic course benefits, such as enhanced CV, and a few mentioned potential societal benefits such as a healthy population and sustainable food consumption. Several motivators for attending the course were launched, such as increased knowledge and cooking skills, having dinner and expanded network. The students wanted to learn about food, nutrients and health, and how to cook simple, affordable, healthy and sustainable meals. Potential barriers for attending were mostly related to practicalities, such as potential lack of alignment with ordinary study programme or too demanding lectures.

CONCLUSION

Most students acknowledged the value of a dietary life skills course and thought that such a course could benefit their personal life. This encourages the offering of such courses at university level, tailored to consider both motivators and barriers for attending.

Impact of the Intake of Snacks and Lifestyle Behaviors on Obesity among University Students Living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Unhealthy eating habits increase the risk of obesity. This study investigated the association between obesity and the intake of snacks and lifestyle behaviors among university students in Saudi Arabia. The study included 662 students aged 18–29 years, studying at King Abdulaziz University. An online survey collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, height, and weight, to calculate body mass index (BMI), lifestyle behaviors, dietary habits, and snack intake. The prevalence of overweight and obese students was 18.6% and 12.7%, respectively. Sociodemographic characteristics and lifestyle behaviors had insignificant effects on obesity. Obese students consumed two meals daily and more cereals during breakfast. Non-obese students consumed more beverages at breakfast and had their daily meals with their families. The frequency of intake of snacks had an insignificant effect on obesity. However, obese students had a significantly higher intake of potato chips, popcorn, and biscuits, while non-obese students had a significantly higher intake of salads compared with obese students. Students consumed significantly less fruit and vegetables, chocolate, biscuits, nuts, and dairy products as snacks when inside the university compared to outside. To reduce obesity among students, universities should ensure access to healthy snacks, and provide health education programs to encourage healthy eating habits and lifestyles.

Physical Activity and Physical Fitness among University Students-A Systematic Review

The aim of this systematic review was to examine the scientific evidence regarding physical activity and physical fitness among university students. The search and analysis of the studies were done in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. An electronic databases search (Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus) yielded 11,839 studies. Subsequently, the identified studies had to be published in English between 2011 and 2021, the experimental study had to have included males and females attending a faculty, and the participants had to have been evaluated for physical activity and fitness. A total of 21 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis, with a total of 7306 participants, both male and female. After analyzing the obtained results, it could be concluded that university students show a satisfactory level of physical activity and physical fitness. However, the results vary due to different factors involved, mostly related to the cultural differences and educational systems in different countries. As this study observes mediocre results of physical activity and physical fitness among university students, it is crucial to get their attention and awareness, to at least maintain a satisfactory level of physical activity and physical fitness.

Obesity and Diet Predict Attitudes towards Health Promotion in Pre-Registered Nurses and Midwives

Nurses and midwives are integral to public health promotion; in the UK, they are advised to act as role models by their governing body, but overweight or obesity rates are high. We explored whether obesity and dietary habits are related to attitudes towards healthy role modelling and health promotion practice. A total of 346 pre-registered UK nurses and midwives (92.6% female; 18–53 years) completed an online survey. Items included body composition, dietary habits assessed by the Lifestyle Behaviour Questionnaire (LBQ), attitudes towards being role models for health (RA: role attitudes) and attitudes toward health promotion practice (ATHPP): 33.8% of the sample self-reported as overweight or obese; 67.6% did not consume 5-a-day portions of fruit/veg; 31.5% reported a healthy diet; and 89.6% believed their diet could be healthier. Positive RA was significantly linked to health promotion engagement (HP) (ß = 0.33, p < 0.001). Positive ATHPP was significantly predicted by lower BMI (ß = −0.08, p = 0.078), positive RA (ß = 0.67, p < 0.001), lower HP (ß = −0.25, p < 0.001) and male gender (ß = 0.09, p = 0.02). Greater confidence in patients valuing healthcare professional’s advice was predicted by healthier diet (ß = 0.11, p = 0.03), lower BMI (ß = −0. 16, p < 0.01), more positive RA (ß = 0.14, p < 0.01) as well as HP engagement during training (ß = 0.20, p < 0.01). One’s own motivation to promote health, similarly to ATHPP, was predicted by RA (ß = 0.17, p = 0.001) and previous HP engagement (ß = 0.39, p < 0.001). Findings show that overweight and obesity are prevalent in pre-registered nurses and midwives; the majority did not consume a healthy diet. Individual’s body composition, diet and attitudes towards role modelling are positively associated with their attitudes towards, and confidence in, health promotion practice. Experiences of health promotion practice during training can have either a positive or a negative influence on attitudes. Mentors and educators could actively promote healthy lifestyles for pre-registered nurses and midwives and facilitate more opportunities for health promotion practice during placements, which includes time for reflection.

Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and Satisfaction With Life of University Students in Qatar: Changes During Confinement Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

This study explored the effects of home confinement on physical activity (PA) and satisfaction with life (SL) among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 531 subjects participated [male: n=203; female: n=328; age: 33.1±5.2years; mass: 72.1±17.5kg; height: 1.67±0.12m; and body mass index (BMI): 25.7±5.06 kg/m2]. Online survey questions considered "before" and "during" confinement. Confinement reduced all PA intensities (ηp 2=0.09-0.45, p<0.001) and increased daily sitting time (ηp 2=0.58, p<0.001). The largest reduction was in moderate intensity PA [metabolic equivalent of task-minutes/week (MET), ηp 2=0.45, p<0.001]. SQL decreased, with the score for "I am satisfied with my life" (ηp 2=0.42, p<0.001) decreasing from 28.4±5.7 to 20.6±9.7 arbitrary units (AU). Concerning SL, the largest change was detected for "the conditions of my life are excellent" (ηp 2=0.54, p<0.001). Time changes in all variables were demonstrative of large negative changes in both sexes. The difference in change between sexes was largest in terms of magnitude for the variable "the conditions of my life are excellent" (difference between groups, Δd=0.98). In sum, COVID-19 confinement reduced PA, heightened sitting time, and reduced SL in Qatar University students. This investigation could have a significant impact in developing PA guidelines for health maintainance during COVID-19 and successive pandemics in university students.

Living alone and prediction of weight gain and overweight/obesity in university students: a retrospective cohort study

To assess the clinical impact of living alone on weight gain in university students. Participants: This retrospective cohort study included 17540 male and 8854 female university students admitted to a national university in Japan. Methods: An association between living arrangement and the incidence of weight gain ≥10% and overweight/obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m²) was assessed using multivariable-adjusted Poisson regression models. Results: Weight gain was observed in 1889 (10.8%) male and 1516 (17.1%) female students during 3.0 and 2.9 years of the mean observational period, respectively. Living alone was identified as a significant predictor of weight gain (adjusted incidence rate ratio of living alone vs. living with family: 1.24 [1.13-1.36] and 1.76 [1.58-1.95] in male and female students, respectively) and was also as a predictor of overweight/obesity. Conclusions: University students living alone were at a significantly higher risk of weight gain and overweight/obesity than those living with family.

Evaluation of a College-Level Nutrition Course With a Teaching Kitchen Lab

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of a college nutrition course with a teaching kitchen lab on students' attitudes, self-efficacy, and behaviors about healthful eating and cooking.

METHODS

Preintervention and postintervention design, and anonymous online survey of sociodemographic information and students' attitudes and self-efficacy about consuming fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and about cooking, self-reported intake, and cooking behaviors.

RESULTS

Two-hundred and fourteen participants enrolled in the study during 5 semesters. Of these, 171 (80%) had complete pretest and posttest data. Attitudes and self-efficacy scores about consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and cooking were significantly higher in the posttest (vs pretest; all P < 0.0001). Self-reported intake of fruits (P < 0.0001) and vegetables (P = 0.0006) also increased. Cooking frequency increased (P < 0.0001), skipping meals frequency decreased (P < 0.0001), whereas no significant changes were observed for eating out, take-out, or premade meals frequency.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

A college nutrition course with a teaching kitchen lab could improve healthful eating and promote cooking in young adults.

Physical Inactivity as a Pandemic: Daily Activities and Dietary Practices

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have linked a decline in physical activity (PA) around the world to an increase in chronic diseases. There were two key goals for this study. The first was to observe how daily activities affected physical health in terms of VO2max. The second aim was to investigate the effect of university students' dietary practices on levels of PA.

METHODS

A repeated cross-sectional study was conducted on 75 subjects (41 males and 34 females) with an average age of 27.3 [SD 5.8] years. The respondents' physical activity in the previous seven days was classified as vigorous activity, moderate activity, walking, and sitting using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Anthropometric measurements such as height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were reported at the baseline, during Lent (week 7 of the vegan diet), and seven weeks later (week 14). To determine Maximum Oxygen Consumption-the VO2max, the Queen's College Step Test [QCST] was used.

RESULTS

There was a major difference in mean VO2max between males and females, with males getting a higher VO2max. There was no connection between VO2max and changes in dietary adherence/transition. Based on physical activity study, there were no major variations between subjects (walking Metabolic Equivalent Task (MET) and moderate MET). However, a thorough Vigorous MET showed major gender gaps. The majority of the participants in the current study spent 35 (46.7%) of their time studying and 19 (28%) of their time attending class lectures, with some students using more time than others.

CONCLUSION

Researches that may conduct in university and/or college students may provide early information to help the students understand their physical fitness. According to the findings of this limited prospective study, students spend the majority of their time engaging in sitting for various purposes. In turn, regardless of whether they followed a vegan or omnivorous diet, these study participants had low VO2 max.

Physical Activity and Life Satisfaction: An Empirical Study in a Population of Senior Citizens

Objective: The specialised literature indicates that the two key aspects in active ageing are performing physical activity and life satisfaction. Regarding physical activity, this not only improves physical aspects of senior citizens, but also has a positive impact on mental well-being and satisfaction with one’s own life. The aim is to demonstrate the relationship between these two variables to explain healthy ageing.

Method: In a sample of 300 senior citizen subjects, the influence of various sociodemographic variables (age, sex, institutionalisation, and level of education) on the performance of physical activity and life satisfaction, is analysed. The research design is a non-experimental study with two unique cross-sectional and correlational measurement groups.

Results: An analysis of the results indicates that people with a higher level of education present differences in physical and motivational reserves. Furthermore, age and institutionalisation have an impact on physical reserves. Analysis using structural equation models allows key relationships between the variables analysed to be predicted, which can guide the implementation of active ageing.

Conclusion: Motivational reserves affect healthy cognitive ageing through their positive impact on cognitive and physical reserves.

Experiences with and Perception of a Web-Based Mindfulness, Nutrition, and Fitness Platform Reported by First-Year University Students: A Qualitative Study

BACKGROUND

My Viva Plan (MVP) (https://www.myvivainc.com/) is a web-based application developed by a dietitian that aims to support healthy living by providing resources and self-monitoring tools to help promote a healthy diet, healthy mind, and physical fitness. First-year university students have the potential to benefit because poor dietary choices, limited physical activity, and high stress are prevalent in this population. In addition, they are also active technology users.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to understand experiences and perception of MVP by first-year university students using this tool as part of a 12-week randomized controlled trial.

DESIGN

One-on-one semistructured interviews were conducted following a 12-week intervention involving use of MVP.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTING

First-year university students from the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (n = 32).

INTERVENTION

Participants were instructed to use MVP as much as possible for 12 weeks in either the fall/2018 or winter/2019 semesters.

QUALITATIVE DATA ANALYSIS

Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed abductively using content analysis.

RESULTS

Participants reported varied use of MVP across the 12-week period. Data were categorized using the HealthChange Methodology (Behaviors, Emotions, 37 Situations, Thinking) framework. Participants provided various examples of emotions (eg, motivation, stress), situations (eg, time, living arrangements, finances), and thinking (eg, self-awareness, level of satisfaction with MVP, and how MVP was or could be better tailored for students) that acted as either facilitators or barriers to MVP use and explained their behaviors associated with this tool.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, participant behaviors regarding MVP varied and were influenced by several factors, including their emotions, situations, and thinking. The Behaviors, Emotions, Situations, Thinking framework may be helpful for dietitians to identify barriers and facilitators affecting their client's use of ehealth tools for lifestyle behavior change. This information can be used to optimize client support when using these tools.

Sex differences in weight perception and weight gain among Black college students in the USA

Objectives

The aims of this study were to examine the prevalence of overweight/obesity and to explore sex differences in body weight perceptions and correlates of weight gain among Black students at 2 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the USA.

Methods

Participants completed a paper-based survey, and their height and weight were measured (67% completion rate).

Results

The overweight and obesity rates were 33.8% and 26.9%, respectively. More females than males accurately assessed their weight (p<0.05). Body weight underestimation was associated with male sex, excellent/very good perceived overall health, and not being informed by a doctor of having overweight or obesity (p<0.01). Higher odds of ≥5% weight gain were related to female sex, living on campus, and not being informed by a doctor of having overweight or obesity (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Given the high overweight and obesity rates among Black students, HBCUs in the USA should develop intervention strategies for the prevention and management of overweight and obesity. College health educators at HBCUs need to provide regular check-ups or health screenings that help male students perceive their weight accurately and prevent weight underestimation. It is important for HBCUs to monitor and address weight gain among Black students as early as possible.

The Influence of Social Support Specific to Physical Activity on Physical Activity Among College and University Students: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Starting college or university is a significant life event that can impact students' physical activity (PA). Social support specific to PA (SSPA) is a social determinant of PA among college and university students. This review had 3 aims: (1) to systematically review studies examining the association between SSPA and PA among students; (2) to examine whether potential associations differed in terms of types or sources of SSPA; and (3) to examine whether any potential associations differed in terms of gender.

METHODS

Studies were identified using Academic Search Premier, PsycInfo, Sociological Abstracts, and SPORTDiscus.

RESULTS

This review included 25 papers. The results suggested that there is a positive association between SSPA and PA among college and university students. Although the importance of different sources of SSPA is not clear, the results suggested that family and friends provide significant SSPA.

CONCLUSIONS

High variability in measurement methods made it difficult to compare studies and to come to a clear consensus. However, the findings suggested that SSPA may be a determinant of PA. In order to better understand the relationship between SSPA and PA among students, some elements, such as gender, socioeconomic level, and off- or on-campus housing, should be considered in future studies.

Changes in Body Composition, Energy Expenditure, and Energy Intake during Four Years of University-A Follow-Up Study

Purpose: The transition to university is often accompanied by the adoption of negative lifestyle habits, which may result in weight and fat gain. While this has been demonstrated during 1st year, little is known about subsequent years. We investigated changes in body composition, energy expenditure, and dietary/energy intake from 1st to 4th year university. Methods: Thirty-eight students (14 males, 24 females) completed a lifestyle questionnaire and had their body mass, fat mass, lean body mass (LBM), and body fat percentage (%BF) measured three times: at the beginning and end of 1st year, and end of 4th year. Results: During 1st year, body mass, fat mass, LBM, and %BF increased (+3.2 ± 3.8 kg, +2.5 ± 3.0 kg, +0.7 ± 2.1 kg, +2.3 ± 4.9%, respectively; p < 0.01), while daily energy intake and expenditure decreased (-359 ± 1019 kcal·d-1 and -434 ± 786 kcal·d-1, respectively; p < 0.01). Between the end of 1st year and end of 4th year, body mass, LBM, and energy expenditure increased (+3.2 ± 3.8 kg, +1.3 ± 2.9 kg, +209 ± 703 kcal·d-1, respectively; p ≤ 0.05), while %BF, fat mass, and energy intake did not change. Conclusions: Although %BF and fat mass remained stable from the end of 1st year to the end of 4th year in this group of university students, the positive increase in energy expenditure was not enough to reverse the weight and fat gained during 1st year.

Freshmen weight and body composition change determinants: A scoping review

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.

The association between fitness and obesity in diverse multi-ethnic college students

OBJECTIVE

We examined differences and associations between physical fitness and behavioral factors with obesity in a multi-ethnic student population. Participants: Study population included non-Hispanic whites (NHW, n = 1,454); Hispanics (n = 1,436) and Asians (n = 1,016) at a metropolitan university from Fall 2006 to Fall 2013. Methods: Analyses of Variance and regression analyses, utilizing cross-sectional data, measured the association between fitness, and behavior with obesity. Results: BMI differences (p < .05) were observed between NHW (23.17 ± 3.67), Hispanics (24.32 ± 3.67), and Asians (22.92 ± 4.12). Fitness parameters, relative VO2 max, % body fat, and total fitness score were significantly (p < .0001) associated with obesity. Stress was strongly significantly associated with obesity in Hispanics (p < .001) and somewhat in NHW. Conclusions: Obesity disparities persist in college. Physical fitness and stress management interventions should be targeted towards Hispanic and NHW college students, which may curb current and/or adult-onset obesity.

An incentive-based health program using MyPlate: a pilot study analyzing college students' dietary intake behavior

Is dietary education, incentivized by financial rewards, effective in achieving improved dietary intake behavior of college students? Participants: Fifty-seven undergraduates (18-24 years old), non-nutrition major students. Methods: The intervention group participated in weekly nutrition education meetings which focused on MyPlate for four weeks. Both the control and the intervention groups completed two online surveys that assessed the students' knowledge and dietary behavior at the beginning and at the end of the 4-week education program. The respondents' diet quality was determined by their compliance with MyPlate and their Healthy Eating Index's recommendations. Results: Students who received education showed the most improvement regarding their knowledge and dietary behavior. These respondents tripled their average per capita consumption of whole grains and increased their fruit and vegetable intakes. Conclusions: Educating college students to work toward improving their diets with the assistance of incentives may have positive effect on their health behaviors.

Personality traits and BMI trends over three years in Japanese university students

In Europe and America, associations between personality traits and body-mass index (BMI) have been reported. However, in Japan, the association between personality traits and BMI (i.e., thinness and obesity) has not been well studied. In this study, we investigated the relationship between Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) personality traits and changes in BMI status among Japanese students during their university attendance. We measured the height and weight of 5,340 students in a Japanese university during annual medical checkups and calculated their BMI. The students' personality traits were measured using the short Japanese version of the TCI at university admission. The participants were divided into seven groups based on how BMI changed from the first year to the fourth year at university. In men, compared to the group that maintained normal BMI status (N = 2,189) over time (i.e., the control group), the group that maintained thinness status (N = 226) were lower in Reward Dependence, and the group whose status improved from thinness to normal (N = 117) were higher in Harm Avoidance. In women, compared with the control group (N = 1,510), the group that maintained thinness status (N = 302) was lower in Novelty Seeking, and the group whose status worsened from normal to thinness (N = 127) was higher in Harm Avoidance. Weak associations were found between thinness and TCI personality traits among Japanese university students. Further elaboration of the relationship between obesity or thinness and personality traits may help to provide effective preventive interventions in these areas.

Effect of sex/gender on obesity traits in Canadian first year university students: The GENEiUS study

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.

Associations of Skipping Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with Weight Gain and Overweight/Obesity in University Students: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Although multiple studies have identified skipping breakfast as a risk factor for weight gain, there is limited evidence on the clinical impact of skipping lunch and dinner on weight gain. This retrospective cohort study including 17,573 male and 8860 female university students at a national university in Japan, assessed the association of the frequency of breakfast, lunch, and dinner with the incidence of weight gain (≥10%) and overweight/obesity (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m²), using annual participant health checkup data. Within the observation period of 3.0 ± 0.9 years, the incidence of ≥10% weight gain was observed in 1896 (10.8%) men and 1518 (17.1%) women, respectively. Skipping dinner was identified as a significant predictor of weight gain in multivariable-adjusted Poisson regression models for both men and women (skipping ≥ occasionally vs. eating every day, adjusted incidence rate ratios, 1.42 (95% confidence interval: 1.02–1.98) and 1.67 (1.33–2.09) in male and female students, respectively), whereas skipping breakfast and lunch were not. Similarly, skipping dinner, not breakfast or lunch, was associated with overweight/obesity (1.74 (1.07–2.84) and 1.68 (1.02–2.78) in men and women, respectively). In conclusion, skipping dinner predicted the incidence of weight gain and overweight/obesity in university students.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on University Students' Physical Activity Levels: An Early Systematic Review

Purpose: This systematic review aimed to analyze the impact that the COVID-19 lockdown had on the amount of physical activity performed by university students. Materials and Methods: A systematic electronic search for studies providing information regarding physical activity levels pre and during COVID-19 pandemic in university students was performed up to 20th October 2020 in the databases Cochrane Library, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. The risk of bias of external validity quality of included studies was assessed by means of those the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The quality of the evidence for main outcomes was graded using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Results and Conclusions: A total of 10 studies were selected. Physical activity levels were assessed by means of questionnaires (10 studies) and accelerometer (1 study). Risk of bias was regarded as low and high in six and four investigations, respectively. The quality of evidence was downgraded to low. A significant reduction of physical activity levels were observed in 9 studies. Compared to pre-lockdown values, five studies showed a reduction of light/mild physical activity (walking) between 32.5 and 365.5%, while seven studies revealed a reduction of high/vigorous physical activity between 2.9 and 52.8%. Walking, moderate, vigorous, and total physical activity levels have been reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic confinements in university students of different countries. Despite of the reductions, those who met the current minimum PA recommendations before the lockdown generally met the recommendations also during the confinements.

Impulsivity as a risk factor for weight gain and body roundness change among college freshmen

BACKGROUND

The college setting is considered an obesogenic environment due to high availability of palatable foods. However, only a minority of freshmen gain weight. Individual-level risk factors, such as impulsivity, may hold utility in predicting weight and adiposity changes. Individuals with an impulsive decision-making style may favor immediately rewarding foods at the expense of long-term health. Individuals who seek rewarding foods during strong emotions may also be at risk. The study tested decisional (delay-discounting; DD) and emotion-driven impulsivity (urgency) as risk factors for 1) weight and 2) body roundness change during freshman year.

METHODS

Freshmen (N = 103) completed questionnaires assessing DD, positive urgency (PU), and negative urgency (NU). Weight and body roundness index (BRI) were collected at the beginning and end of the academic year. Four repeated measures regression models examined impulsivity factors predicting change in 1) weight and 2) BRI. Models included baseline weight and height or BRI, respectively. Covariates included average daily caloric intake, energy expenditure from walking, and sex.

RESULTS

In models examining weight, neither DD nor NU were significantly associated with weight at follow-up (b = 0.008, p = .977; b = 0.280, p = .075) when holding covariates constant. In contrast, PU was significantly associated with weight at follow-up (b = 0.303, p = .033). In models examining BRI, DD (b = -0.039, p = .511) and PU (b = 0.049, p = .072) were not associated with BRI at follow-up. In contrast, NU was significantly associated with BRI at follow-up (b = 0.068, p = .017).

CONCLUSIONS

Emotion-driven impulsivity may be a risk factor for weight gain or change in body roundness during freshman year.

The effect of race/ethnicity on obesity traits in first year university students from Canada: The GENEiUS study

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.

Effect of living arrangement on anthropometric traits in first-year university students from Canada: The GENEiUS study

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.

Identifying factors associated with obesity traits in undergraduate students: a scoping review

OBJECTIVES

This scoping review identifies factors associated with obesity traits including body mass index, weight, and body fat percentage in undergraduate students.

METHODS

We searched CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO for original studies of undergraduate students where an obesity trait was associated with a risk factor.

RESULTS

Two-hundred sixty-eight articles were included comprising of 251 studies: 186 cross-sectional, 50 cohort, 11 interventional, and 4 qualitative. We extracted data on risk/protective factors, obesity traits, and the direction of effect between them. We identified a variety of factors including age, sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, religion, diet, eating habits, physical activity, sedentary activity, sleep, stress, university campus life, alcohol use, smoking, psychiatric disorders, body image, eating attitude, eating regulation, personality, sociocultural influences, and genetics. The majority of associations were cross-sectional. For longitudinal findings, usually only one study investigated each trait.

CONCLUSIONS

This review identifies a need for higher quality evidence to support results from cross-sectional studies and replication of findings of longitudinal studies. This review identifies gaps in the literature, generates hypotheses, guides researchers to plan future studies, and helps decision-makers design obesity-prevention programs in universities.

Associations between Chronotype, Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Sexual Opinion among University Students

A person's chronotype determines different habits, among which are eating and physical activity. Furthermore, at the university stage, social and organisational factors have a direct effect on students' daily attitudes and habits. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet is linked to better sleep quality and less social jet lag, but association with chronotype or sexual opinion remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the associations between chronotype, adherence to the Mediterranean Diet, and sexual opinion. A multicentre observational study enrolled 457 students, from the University of Castilla-La Mancha and the University of Cordoba. Sociodemographic data and adherence to the Mediterranean diet, chronotype, physical activity, and sexual opinion were collected with validated questionnaires. The study period was from December 2017 to January 2018. Our results reported that students with an evening chronotype (E-type), with evening preferences, had a lower adherence to the Mediterranean diet and showed a higher tendency towards erotophilia. E-type students reported a significantly lower intake of fruits, vegetables, pulses, cereals, and olive oil, and higher breakfast skipping. Therefore, among the measures to promote healthy habits (obesity prevention, sexual education, socialisation, etc.), chronotype and an analysis of the impact of the schedules established by the universities must be considered.

Exploring Relationships of Sleep Duration with Eating and Physical Activity Behaviors among Canadian University Students

BACKGROUND

Students pursuing postsecondary education are a population described as vulnerable for sleep problems, poor dietary habits, weight gain, and reduced physical activity. The primary goal of this study was to examine relationships of sleep behaviors with eating and physical activity behaviors in a sample of undergraduate health sciences students.

METHODS

Using a cross-sectional design, undergraduate health sciences students in a small Canadian university were recruited to complete an on-line questionnaire about their sleep, eating, and physical activity behaviors using valid and reliable instruments. Key sociodemographic characteristics and self-reported height and weight data were also captured.

RESULTS

The participants (n = 245) were on average 23 years of age, female (86%), and the majority were full-time students (92%). The mean BMI was within a healthy range (mean 24.58 SD 5.55) with the majority reporting low physical activity levels (65%). Despite self-reports of very or fairly good (65%) sleep quality in the past month, the mean global sleep scores (scores > 5, mean 7.4, SD 3.3) indicated poor overall sleep quality. Poorer sleep quality was associated with higher BMIs (r = 0.265, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings highlight the need to expand the scope of on-campus wellness programs to promote healthy sleep habits in a vulnerable university population.