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Gutiérrez-Espinoza H, Cassola-Cajiao M, Garzón-Ulloa E, Celi-Lalama D, Bastidas-Caldes C, Araya-Quintanilla F, Cristi-Montero C, López-Gil JF. Lifestyle behavior of physiotherapy students from Ecuador upon admission to higher education: a cross-sectional study. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1352144. [PMID: 38645730 PMCID: PMC11026592 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1352144] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Admission to university has been identified as a period involving the adoption of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. However, few studies have addressed the extent of this experience among Latin American university students. The aim of this study was twofold: first, to describe anthropometric variables, body composition, physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep duration and quality, diet, and alcohol consumption in first-year students entering physiotherapy school at the Universidad de las Americas in Quito, Ecuador; second, to test differences in these variables between sexes. Methods A total of 116 students were recruited. Sociodemographic variables, anthropometric indices, body composition, physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep quality and duration, adherence to 24-hour movement guidelines, physical fitness (i.e., handgrip strength), diet, alcohol consumption, and smoking habits were evaluated. Results A total of 50 male (43.1%) and 66 female (56.9%) students were assessed. Overall, the adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines of the students upon admission to university was 8.6%. Conversely, 86 students (74.1%) did not meet any of the recommendations. Upon admission to university, only 8.6% of the students (female 2.6%; male 6%) met the overall 24-hour movement guidelines. Additionally, 82 students (70.7%) needed changes in diet quality, 81 students (69.8%) had significant sleep disturbances, and 22 students (18.9%) had harmful alcohol consumption. A greater proportion of males met all three 24-h movement recommendations (p = 0.025) than females did. In addition, females reported a greater percentage of occasional smokers (p = 0.025) and a greater prevalence of obesity (p < 0.001), a lower level of physical activity (p < 0.001), and a greater percentage of sleep disturbance (p < 0.001). Conversely, males reported greater waist circumference (p = 0.005), weight (p < 0.001), handgrip strength (p < 0.001), and a greater percentage of harmful alcohol consumption (p < 0.001). Discussion Our study showed that upon admission to university, overall adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines is low among university students. Additionally, a high percentage of students reported unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, with differences according to sex. Our findings could lead to the use of specific sex-specific strategies for the prevention and promotion of movement and lifestyle behaviors during this critical period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Felipe Araya-Quintanilla
- Escuela de Kinesiología, Facultad de Odontología y Ciencias de la Rehabilitación, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carlos Cristi-Montero
- IRyS Group, Physical Education School, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - José Francisco López-Gil
- One Health Research Group, Universidad de las Americas, Quito, Ecuador
- Department of Communication and Education, Loyola University, Andalusia, Seville, Spain
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Legarreta-Muela F, Esparza Romero J, Terminel-Zaragoza R, Toledo-Domínguez I, Quintero-Portillo H, Ulloa-Mercado G, Gortares-Moroyoqui P, Meza-Escalante E, Rentería-Mexía AM. Associations between dietary intake and physical activity, as behavioral indicators, with body fat in adolescents from Mexico. NUTR HOSP 2023; 40:1127-1135. [PMID: 37522461 DOI: 10.20960/nh.04467] [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] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Introduction: the prevention of cardiometabolic diseases is currently a priority due to its relationship with COVID-19 complications. Unhealthy lifestyles, like inadequate diet and physical inactivity, are the cornerstone for obesity and cardiometabolic risk. Objective: to examine the association between diet and physical activity with body fat in Mexican adolescents. Methods: the study was cross-sectional. Data included socio-demographic variables, health history and smoking habit obtained through questionnaires; blood pressure and anthropometry measurements; food and nutrient intake through 24-hour recalls; and physical activities through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Univariate analyses were used and multiple models were built by stepwise forward selection (p ≤ 0.05 and biological plausibility). Results: participants were n = 230 students, 18.5 ± 0.4 years and 54.8 % men. Three models associated with body fat were obtained. In the first model, saturated fatty acids (β = 0.30, p = 0.028) were significant positive associated, while vigorous physical activity was significant negative associated as a protective factor (β = -0.007, p = 0.023). In the second model, total fat (β = 0.17, p = 0.005) was significant positive associated, and vigorous physical activity was significant negative associated (β = -0.007, p = 0.023). The third model included fruits and vegetables (β = -5.49, p = 0.092) and vigorous physical activity (β = -0.006, p = 0.058) as protective factors. Conclusions: dietary intake of total fat and saturated fatty acids, and vigorous physical activity, were significantly associated with body fat, while fruits and vegetables trended toward significance, in Mexican adolescents. Community-based programs that promote intake of protective foods and reduction of risky foods, and encourage vigorous physical activity, are needed in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julián Esparza Romero
- Diabetes Research Unit. Department of Public Nutrition and Health. Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo A.C
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Edna Meza-Escalante
- Department of Water and Environment Sciences. Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora
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Bellitti JS, Rohde K, Fazzino TL. Motives and food craving: Associations with frequency of hyper-palatable food intake among college students. Eat Behav 2023; 51:101814. [PMID: 37729846 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2023.101814] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND College food environments provide wide access to hyper-palatable foods (HPF). Palatable eating motives and craving are individual factors that may impact HPF intake. Nevertheless, no study to date has examined the relationship between these factors and frequency of HPF intake in a dormitory all-you-can-eat-style cafeteria meal, a typical college food setting. METHODS College students (N = 218) self-reported frequency of HPF intake at a college cafeteria meal and their frequency of HPF intake in the overall diet. Quasipoisson and logistic regression models tested whether palatable eating motives (assessed via the Palatable Eating Motives Scale) and craving (assessed via the Food Craving Inventory) were associated with the rate of HPF intake during the cafeteria meal and excess frequency of HPF intake in the overall diet. RESULTS Craving was associated with a 19% higher rate of HPF intake during the cafeteria meal (RR = 1.19; p = .015) and a >2-fold higher likelihood of excess frequency of HPF intake the overall diet (OR = 2.69; p < .001). Coping motive was associated with an 87% higher likelihood of excess frequency of HPF intake in the overall diet (OR = 1.87; p = .002), but not in the cafeteria meal. Reward enhancement, social and conformity motives were not significantly associated with the frequency of HPF intake in either setting. CONCLUSIONS Results highlight the role of craving and coping motive in the frequency of HPF intake among college students. Prevention efforts may consider targeting craving and eating to cope to potentially address frequency of HPF intake among college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph S Bellitti
- 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
| | - Kaitlyn Rohde
- 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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4
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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: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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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Pomeroy A, Bates LC, Stoner L, Weaver MA, Moore JB, Nepocatych S, Higgins S. Protocol for a Longitudinal Study of the Determinants of Metabolic Syndrome Risk in Young Adults. TRANSLATIONAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SPORTS MEDICINE 2022; 7. [PMID: 35465055 PMCID: PMC9022630 DOI: 10.1249/tjx.0000000000000197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Context As many as 76.7% of U.S. young adults have at least one metabolic syndrome risk factor. Often undetected, metabolic syndrome risk factors cluster with other risk factors increasing risk of future cardiometabolic disease. The prevention of metabolic syndrome risk accrual through early behavioral interventions is crucial for at-risk populations. Objectives This paper outlines the protocol for the Health E Start study, including the objectives, methodology, ethics, and dissemination. Additionally, we discuss the goals of the National Institutes of Health Research Enhancement Award (R15) that funded this project and how this funding will facilitate the comprehensive training of undergraduate researchers. The long-term goal of the study is to develop a theoretically driven intervention for the prevention of metabolic syndrome risk development in college students. To facilitate this goal, the aims are to identify 1) behavioral targets for the prevention of metabolic syndrome risk development and 2) the motivations behind such behaviors to develop a theoretical framework for use in intervention design. Design Longitudinal observational design. Setting Transition from living at home to independent living at colleges across the U.S. Participants High school seniors (n = 150) who will be transitioning to college within 3 months of graduating. Main Outcome Measure For aim 1, metabolic syndrome risk will be quantified into a risk score using a principal components analysis of traditional risk factors. Associations between changes in lifestyle behaviors and changes in the risk score will identify population-specific behavioral targets. For aim 2, changes in psychological, social, and environmental antecedents of observed behaviors will be identified. Conclusions Identifying the relationship between behavior change and metabolic syndrome risk, and the psychosocial and environmental predictors of observed behavior changes will facilitate the design of targeted interventions for the prevention of metabolic syndrome risk progression in the early college years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Pomeroy
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lauren C Bates
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lee Stoner
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Mark A Weaver
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Elon University, Elon, NC, USA
| | - Justin B Moore
- Department of Implementation Science, Department of Epidemiology & Prevention, and Department of Family & Community Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest, NC, USA
| | | | - Simon Higgins
- Department of Exercise Science, Elon University, Elon, NC, USA
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PAULO RM, DUARTE-MENDES PA, SILVA FM, SERRANO JJ, RAMALHO AL, PETRICA JM. Changes in body composition and blood pressure in students entering in university education: a 32-month longitudinal study. GAZZETTA MEDICA ITALIANA ARCHIVIO PER LE SCIENZE MEDICHE 2021. [DOI: 10.23736/s0393-3660.20.04370-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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7
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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
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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8
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Trottier CF, Lieffers JRL, Johnson ST, Mota JF, Gill RK, Prado CM. The Impact of a Web-Based Mindfulness, Nutrition, and Physical Activity Platform on the Health Status of First-Year University Students: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e24534. [PMID: 33688844 PMCID: PMC7991982 DOI: 10.2196/24534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background First-year university students are at an increased risk for developing mental health issues and a poor nutritional status. Self-care plays an essential role in optimizing mental health and can prevent or manage stress, anxiety, and depression. Web-based self-monitoring of diet and physical activity can lead to similar or improved health outcomes compared with conventional methods. Such tools are also popular among university students. Objective The primary aim of this 12-week randomized controlled trial is to assess the impact of a web-based wellness platform on perceived stress among first-year university students. The secondary aim is to assess the effects of the platform on diet quality. The exploratory objectives are to explore the effects of the platform on body composition, health-related quality of life, mindfulness, mental well-being, and physical activity. Methods A total of 97 first-year undergraduate students were randomized to either the intervention (n=48) or control (n=49) group. The intervention consisted of access to a web-based platform called My Viva Plan (MVP), which aims to support healthy living by focusing on the topics of mindfulness, nutrition, and physical activity. The platform is fully automated and guided by the principles of cognitive behavioral theory. Participants in the intervention group were instructed to use the MVP as frequently as possible over 12 weeks. The control group did not receive access to MVP. Perceived stress was assessed using the Stress Indicators Questionnaire at baseline, week 6, and week 12. Three-day food records were used to analyze the dietary intake at baseline and week 12. Health-related quality of life, mindfulness, mental well-being, and physical activity questionnaires were completed at baseline, week 6, and week 12. Body composition was assessed at baseline and week 12. Study assessments were completed in person at baseline and week 12 and electronically at week 6. Results Study recruitment started in August 2018, with batch enrollment for students registered in the fall (September 2018 to December 2018) and winter (January 2019 to April 2019) academic terms at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta. Conclusions This study is the first to explore the impact of a web-based platform designed to promote health and wellness on perceived stress and diet quality among first-year university students. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03579264; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03579264. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/24534
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire F Trottier
- Human Nutrition Research Unit, Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jessica R L Lieffers
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Steven T Johnson
- Faculty of Health Disciplines, Athabasca University, Athabasca, AB, Canada
| | - João F Mota
- Clinical and Sports Nutrition Research Laboratory (LABINCE), Faculty of Nutrition, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Roshni K Gill
- Human Nutrition Research Unit, Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Carla M Prado
- Human Nutrition Research Unit, Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on US College Students' Physical Activity and Mental Health. J Phys Act Health 2021; 18:272-278. [PMID: 33601332 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2020-0325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on both physical activity (PA) and mental health is important to demonstrate the need for interventions. This study examined the apparent impact of the pandemic on college students' PA, perceived stress, and depressive symptoms. METHODS From 2015 through 2020, data were collected at the beginning and end of the spring semester at a large Northeastern US university via an online survey assessing student demographics, PA, perceived stress, and depressive symptoms. Mixed ANOVA examined differences in PA and mental health changes over the spring semester between "normal" and COVID-19 circumstances. Two-way ANOVA examined the interaction between circumstance and changes in PA in relation to changes in mental health. RESULTS Participants (n = 1019) were predominately women and non-Hispanic white. There was a significant decline in PA and an increase in perceived stress under COVID-19, but not normal, circumstances and a significant increase in depressive symptoms under COVID-19, but not normal, circumstances among women. CONCLUSIONS A significant decline in PA and mental health among college students occurred under COVID-19 circumstances, and PA did not appear to protect against deterioration in mental health. Proactive and innovative policies, programs, and practices to promote student health and well-being must be explored immediately.
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Morassut RE, Tian C, Meyre D. Identifying factors associated with obesity traits in undergraduate students: a scoping review. Int J Public Health 2020; 65:1193-1204. [PMID: 32889552 DOI: 10.1007/s00038-020-01458-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita E Morassut
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Chenchen Tian
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - David Meyre
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. .,Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
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11
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Merianos AL, Jacobs W, Oloruntoba O, Gittens OE, Smith ML. Perceived Severity of Interrelated Cardiometabolic Risk Factors among U.S. College Students. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH EDUCATION 2020; 51:234-243. [DOI: 10.1080/19325037.2020.1765907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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12
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Winpenny EM, Smith M, Penney T, Foubister C, Guagliano JM, Love R, Clifford Astbury C, van Sluijs EMF, Corder K. Changes in physical activity, diet, and body weight across the education and employment transitions of early adulthood: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Obes Rev 2020; 21:e12962. [PMID: 31955496 PMCID: PMC7079102 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Early adulthood is a time when individuals go through important life transitions, such as moving from high school into higher education or employment, but the impact of these life transitions on changes in body weight, diet, and physical activity is not known. We searched six electronic databases to July 2019 for longitudinal observational studies providing data on adiposity, diet, and/or physical activity across education or employment transitions in young people aged between 15 and 35 years. We found 19 studies, of which 17 assessed changes in physical activity, three body weight, and five diet or eating behaviours. Meta-analysis (n=9) found that leaving high school was associated with a decrease of -7.04 (95% CI, -11.26, -2.82) min/day of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Three studies reported increases in body weight on leaving high school. A small number of studies suggested decreases in diet quality on leaving high school (n=2/4 papers) and leaving university (n=1) but not on starting employment (n=1). Studies suggested no change in physical activity on leaving university (n=4) but decreases in physical activity on starting employment (n=2/3). The transition of leaving high school is an important time to support individuals to prevent decreases in physical activity and gains in body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor M Winpenny
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) at the MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285, Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Miranda Smith
- Newnham College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Tarra Penney
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) at the MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285, Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Campbell Foubister
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) at the MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285, Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Justin M Guagliano
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) at the MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285, Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rebecca Love
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) at the MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285, Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Chloe Clifford Astbury
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) at the MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285, Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Esther M F van Sluijs
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) at the MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285, Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kirsten Corder
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) at the MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285, Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
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13
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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: 0.8] [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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Kliemann N, Croker H, Johnson F, Beeken RJ. Starting university with high eating self-regulatory skills protects students against unhealthy dietary intake and substantial weight gain over 6 months. Eat Behav 2018; 31:105-112. [PMID: 30243053 PMCID: PMC6234330 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is consistent evidence that suggests first year students are at risk of weight gain, but the reasons for this vulnerability are still unclear. This study aimed to explore whether the ability to regulate eating behaviours is a predictor of weight and dietary changes in first year undergraduate students. METHODS First year undergraduate students from universities situated in London were invited to complete a survey at the beginning of the academic year and at 6-month follow-up. Each survey included the Self-Regulation of Eating Behaviour Questionnaire, food frequency questions, socio-demographic questions and anthropometric questions. Linear and logistic regressions were performed to explore the associations between baseline eating self-regulatory skills and weight and dietary changes. RESULTS 481 first year undergraduate students took part in the study. Students who entered university with higher eating self-regulatory skills were more likely to maintain or achieve a higher fruit and vegetable (OR = 1.8, p = 0.007) and a lower sweet and salty snack (OR = 1.9, p = 0.001) intake over the course of the first 6 months in university. Higher baseline eating self-regulatory skills were also related to lower weight changes (β = -0.15, p = 0.018) and lower likelihood of gaining 5% initial body weight (OR = 0.52, p = 0.006) at 6-month. Additionally, self-regulatory skills moderated the relationship between baseline BMI and weight changes (β = -0.25, p ≤0.001) and between baseline BMI and 5% weight gain (OR = 0.82, p = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS Starting university with higher eating self-regulatory skills may help students to maintain or achieve a healthy diet and protect them against substantial weight gain, especially among students with overweight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Kliemann
- Department of Behavioural Science & Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Helen Croker
- Department of Behavioural Science & Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fiona Johnson
- Department of Behavioural Science & Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rebecca J. Beeken
- Department of Behavioural Science & Health, University College London, London, UK,Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK,Corresponding author at: Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
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Brace AM, De Andrade FC, Finkelstein B. Assessing the effectiveness of nutrition interventions implemented among US college students to promote healthy behaviors: A systematic review. Nutr Health 2018; 24:171-181. [PMID: 30014743 DOI: 10.1177/0260106018785528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Nutrition interventions are used to increase knowledge, change attitudes and beliefs about healthy eating, to increase skills, and promote healthy eating. AIMS: To review the effectiveness of published nutrition interventions implemented among college students to promote healthy behaviors. METHODS: The authors explored multiple electronic databases, such as ERIC, Science Direct, and EBSCOhost. Search criteria included nutritional interventions implemented among students attending US colleges, written in English, and published in peer-reviewed journals between 2000 and 2015. The authors conducted a systematic search of 1413 articles, and an in-depth review of 30 articles. The authors evaluated the following: (a) participants; (b) research design; (c) assessment instruments; (d) outcome measures; (e) results; and (f) methodological issues. RESULTS: Short-term interventions showed promise in promoting positive dietary changes, which can serve as a protective factor for developing overweight and obesity. Methodological issues related to lack of comparison groups and minimal long-term follow-up do not allow researchers to determine if the interventions were the cause of the change, or if these changes are sustained over time. Studies that have a comparison group, use visual displays, or have longer durations, may maximize outcomes, improving long-term effects. CONCLUSIONS: Nutrition interventions can effectively change dietary habits among college students. This can lead to healthy weight management and reduce the risk for overweight and obesity. Future research should consider the highlighted methodological issues to improve the quality of nutrition interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bobbi Finkelstein
- 3 Department of Occupational Science and Studies, Towson University, USA
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