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Racial and gender differences in weight status and dietary practices among college students
R D Debate1, M Topping, R G Sargent
1Department of Health Promotion and Kinesiology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 28223, USA. rdigioac@email.uncc.edu
Adolescence
|April 4, 2002
Summary
College student nutrition revealed significant disparities, with some groups facing obesity risks. Dietary habits like fruit and vegetable intake need improvement to meet health goals.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Public Health
- Anthropometry
Background:
- College students represent a critical demographic for nutritional assessment.
- Understanding dietary practices and weight status is essential for targeted health interventions.
- Existing research highlights varied nutritional challenges within this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the nutritional intake, weight status, and dietary habits of U.S. college students.
- To identify specific nutritional concerns and at-risk subgroups.
- To inform the development of culturally relevant health promotion strategies.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire assessed nutritional intake, weight status, and dietary practices.
- Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated from self-reported height and weight.
- Nutritional status was evaluated using 24-hour dietary recalls.
Main Results:
- 64% of students had acceptable BMI (19-25).
- Obesity (BMI ≥ 30) affected 16% of African-American females and 15% of males.
- Dietary intake: 18% met fruit/vegetable goals (≥5 servings), 7% met grain goals (≥6 servings), 53% met dairy goals (≥2 servings).
- 27% reported infrequent fast-food consumption.
Conclusions:
- Significant variations in BMI and dietary intake exist among college students.
- Culturally sensitive health education programs are needed to address nutritional gaps.
- Interventions should aim to improve diet quality and achieve Healthy People 2010 objectives.
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