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Liu J, Pan Y, Wang L, Tao A, Deng Y, Qiu Y, Cao Y, Han S, Yan X, Xu X, Fang X, Lian F. The association between appetite and eating behaviors among Chinese female university students. Heliyon 2024; 10:e37564. [PMID: 39309952 PMCID: PMC11414549 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e37564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Young females are at a higher risk of developing unhealthy eating behaviors. This study investigated the relationship between appetitive traits and eating behaviors among female university students. Methods The study participants were 520 female university students from a public university in Eastern China. Appetitive traits were assessed using the Chinese version of the Adult Eating Behavior Questionnaire (C-AEBQ). Data on eating behaviors, including food intake frequency, meal regularity, and dieting behavior, were collected using self-administered questionnaires. The body mass index (BMI) was calculated using self-reported data. Pearson's and Spearman's correlations were used to correlate appetitive traits with BMI and eating behaviors. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to identify different appetitive patterns, and logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between different appetitive patterns and eating behaviors. Results Two food-approach traits (food enjoyment and emotional over-eating) were positively correlated with BMI, while two food-avoidance traits (slowness in eating and satiety responsiveness) showed negative correlations. Food responsiveness was linked to a higher intake of delivered food, spicy food, and sugar-sweetened beverages, whereas satiety responsiveness was correlated with more frequent meal skipping. The LPA identified four appetitive patterns: food approachers, food approachers with emotional under-eating, food avoiders, and food avoiders with emotional over-eating. Food avoiders had significantly lower BMI than the other groups. Compared to food approachers, food avoiders skipped breakfast more frequently, and food avoiders with emotional over-eating skipped both breakfast and lunch more often. After adjusting for BMI, appetitive patterns showed no significant relationship with dieting behavior. Conclusion Among female university students, appetitive patterns correlated with eating behaviors, and students with food-avoidance patterns had a higher risk of meal irregularity. These findings emphasize the importance of implementing trait- and pattern-specific approaches to promote healthy eating behaviors among female university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Hangzhou Xiaoshan District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiru Pan
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liuxi Wang
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ahui Tao
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Deng
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yue Qiu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifei Cao
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shufen Han
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Yan
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xianrong Xu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuexian Fang
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fuzhi Lian
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Engineering Research Center of Mobile Health Management System, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, China
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Dixit U, Ahlich EM. Barriers and facilitators of help-seeking for eating, weight, and shape concerns among college students. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024:1-11. [PMID: 39186045 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2024.2393092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Objective: Prevalence of disordered eating among college students is concerning, but professional help-seeking rates are low. This study examined barriers and facilitators of help-seeking for eating, weight, and shape concerns in this population. Participants: A non-clinical sample of undergraduates (N = 134; 64.7% females; 63.9% White; 61.7% freshman) were recruited from a research pool. Methods: Participants reported on help-seeking barriers, facilitators, intentions, and behaviors, as well as disordered eating, anxiety, and depression. Results: Commonly endorsed facilitators of help-seeking for disordered eating included desire to get better and other mental health issues. Commonly endorsed barriers highlighted themes of self-reliance. Recent and lifetime help-seeking behaviors suggested preferences for informal sources of help. Greater disordered eating predicted more endorsed facilitators of help-seeking, whereas greater depression predicted more endorsed barriers. Conclusion: Findings-highlighting self-reliance and preferences for informal sources of help-can facilitate efforts to better serve students who may be experiencing disordered eating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urvashi Dixit
- Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA
| | - Erica M Ahlich
- Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA
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Dahl AA, Ademu L, Fandetti S, Harris R. University Food Environment Assessment Methods and Their Implications: Protocol for a Systematic Review. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e54955. [PMID: 39178404 PMCID: PMC11380064 DOI: 10.2196/54955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the retail food environment has been well studied, research surrounding the university food environment is still emerging. Existing research suggests that university food environments can influence behavioral outcomes such as students' dietary choices, which may be maintained long-term. Despite a growing interest in assessing university food environments, there is no standardized tool for completing this task. How researchers define "healthy" when assessing university food environments needs to be clarified. This paper describes the protocol for systematically reviewing literature involving university food environment assessments. OBJECTIVE This paper aimed to describe the protocol for a systematic review of the assessments of university food environments. The review will summarize previously used tools or methods and their implications. METHODS Electronic databases, including PubMed (NLM), Cochrane Library (Wiley), Web of Science (Clarivate), APA PsycINFO (EBSCO), CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health) Complete (EBSCO), ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health, and Google Scholar were searched for papers published between 2012 and 2022 using combinations of related medical subject headings terms and keywords. The electronic databases were supplemented by reviewing the reference list for all included papers and systematic reviews returned with our search results. The review will include all study types, including randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and other pre-post designs. Papers that examine at least 1 aspect of the university food environment, such as cafeterias, campus convenience stores, and vending machines, were considered for inclusion. A total of 2 reviewers will independently screen titles and abstracts, complete a full-text review, extract data, and perform a quality assessment of included papers, with a third reviewer resolving any conflicts. The Quality Assessment for Diverse Studies (QuADS) tool was used to determine the methodological quality of selected studies. A narrative and tabular summary of the findings were presented. There will not be a meta-analysis due to the methodological heterogeneity of the included papers. RESULTS The initial queries of 4502 records have been executed, and papers have been screened for inclusion. Data extractions were completed in December 2023. The results of the review were accepted for publication in May 2024. The systematic review generated from this protocol will offer evidence for using different assessment tools to examine the campus food environment. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review will summarize the tools and methods used to assess university food environments where many emerging adults spend a significant part of their young adult lives. The findings will highlight variations in practice and how "healthy" has been defined globally. This review will provide an understanding of this unique organizational food environment with implications for practice and policy. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42023398073; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=398073. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/54955.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Anne Dahl
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Lilian Ademu
- Texas A&M Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture, Texas A&M AgriLife Research Centre at El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
| | - Stacy Fandetti
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Ryan Harris
- J. Murrey Atkins Library, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
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Greenthal E, Marx K, Grossman ER, Ruffin M, Lucas SA, Benjamin-Neelon SE. Provisions Related to Health, Nutrition, and Healthy Beverage Promotion in University Pouring Rights Contracts: A Content Analysis. Am J Health Promot 2024:8901171241271402. [PMID: 39140236 DOI: 10.1177/08901171241271402] [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: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Many universities maintain pouring rights contracts (PRCs) with beverage companies wherein one company exchanges sponsorship payments for exclusive beverage marketing rights. Separately, universities may have healthy beverage initiatives (HBIs) to encourage healthier choices on campus. This study aimed to assess how and how frequently PRCs included provisions related to health and nutrition to examine how PRCs may support or undermine HBIs. DESIGN Cross-sectional. SETTING U.S. public universities with >20,000 students. SAMPLE 131 PRCs obtained from 124 of 143 universities in 2019-2020. MEASURES Primary outcomes were the presence of provisions that could encourage or discourage promotion of healthy beverages (water, diet soda, unsweetened coffee or tea, and 100% juice), and any other provisions explicitly or implicitly referencing health or nutrition. ANALYSIS Descriptive statistics. RESULTS Twelve contracts (9%) had explicit commitments from the company or university to promote healthy beverages or adhere to nutrition standards, including five committing to support HBIs, four committing to healthy vending policies, and three describing activities to promote healthy beverage brands. Ten (8%) had provisions explicitly inhibiting water promotion and 55 (42%) had provisions that could be interpreted that way. Eleven (8%) included other health and nutrition provisions, such as funding for unspecified wellness activities. CONCLUSION Most university beverage contracts did not expressly aim to support healthy choices, and more than half had provisions potentially limiting universities' ability to implement HBIs. When present, nutrition standards were weak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Greenthal
- Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Katherine Marx
- Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Elyse R Grossman
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, North Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Martha Ruffin
- Lerner Center for Public Health Advocacy, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Sara E Benjamin-Neelon
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of International Health, Division of Human Nutrition, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Assilian T, Dehove H, Charreire H, Baudry J, Kesse-Guyot E, Péneau S, Julia C, Gross O, Oppert JM, Bellicha A. Improving student diet and food security in higher education using participatory and co-creation approaches: a systematic review. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2024; 21:71. [PMID: 38978008 PMCID: PMC11232249 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-024-01613-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Assilian
- Center of Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), Université Sorbonne Paris Nord and Université Paris Cité, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, 93017, France
| | - Henri Dehove
- Center of Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), Université Sorbonne Paris Nord and Université Paris Cité, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, 93017, France
| | - Hélène Charreire
- MoISA, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD, Montpellier, France
- Univ Paris Est Créteil, LabUrba, Créteil, 94010, France
| | - Julia Baudry
- Center of Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), Université Sorbonne Paris Nord and Université Paris Cité, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, 93017, France
| | - Emmanuelle Kesse-Guyot
- Center of Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), Université Sorbonne Paris Nord and Université Paris Cité, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, 93017, France
| | - Sandrine Péneau
- Center of Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), Université Sorbonne Paris Nord and Université Paris Cité, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, 93017, France
| | - Chantal Julia
- Center of Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), Université Sorbonne Paris Nord and Université Paris Cité, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, 93017, France
| | - Olivia Gross
- Health Education and Practices Laboratory, University Sorbonne Paris Nord, Bobigny, 93017, France
| | - Jean-Michel Oppert
- Center of Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), Université Sorbonne Paris Nord and Université Paris Cité, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, 93017, France
- Department of Nutrition, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Sorbonne University, CRNH-Ile de France, Paris, France
| | - Alice Bellicha
- Center of Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN), Université Sorbonne Paris Nord and Université Paris Cité, INSERM, INRAE, CNAM, Bobigny, 93017, France.
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Augustine DA, Dookeram N, Albert S, James S, Bent GA. A pilot study of the contribution of energy-dense Caribbean diets to acrylamide exposure with associated health risks for a population of university students in Trinidad and Tobago. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2024; 41:742-755. [PMID: 38723154 DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2024.2351986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies on university students have indicated a significant decline in the consumption of fruits and vegetables complemented by an increase in energy-dense foods. The food toxicant, acrylamide, typically occurs in carbohydrate-rich, energy-dense foods that have been heated. Hence, this work presents an estimated dietary acrylamide exposure for university students in Trinidad and Tobago. A 2-day dietary recall method was used to obtain the food consumption information from 683 university students of differing sociodemographic backgrounds. The acrylamide exposure was estimated using a deterministic approach. The median acrylamide intake was estimated to be 1.39 µg/kg bw/day. The estimated mean acrylamide dietary intakes for the female and male population were 1.40 and 1.37 µg/kg bw/day, respectively. Coffee was determined to be the major dietary contributor to acrylamide exposure. However, bread was the food item that was most frequently consumed among the students. Using multiple linear regression, a possible correlation was detected between the acrylamide exposure and these variables: dietary habits (mostly eat out; p < 0.05), and Indian ethnicity (p < 0.10). Using the margin of exposure approach, dietary acrylamide exposure was found to be a health concern with regards to neurotoxicity and carcinogenicity. An evaluation of the procedures and results from this pilot study was carried out for the potential of conducting a full-scale research project.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dahryn Andilla Augustine
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Navin Dookeram
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Shelinie Albert
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Sterling James
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Grace-Anne Bent
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
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Oliveira L, BinMowyna MN, Alasqah I, Zandonadi RP, Teixeira-Lemos E, Chaves C, Alturki HA, Albaridi NA, Alribdi FF, Raposo A. A Pilot Study on Dietary Choices at Universities: Vending Machines, Canteens, and Lunch from Home. Nutrients 2024; 16:1722. [PMID: 38892655 PMCID: PMC11174703 DOI: 10.3390/nu16111722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Commercial environments and food acquisition methods significantly shape dietary practices and impact health. This study assesses dietary choices among Portuguese university students regarding vending machines, canteens, and lunches from home. It also evaluates their use of the university canteen and their tendency to bring lunch from home. This pilot cross-sectional study used a self-administered electronic questionnaire, made available in early 2023. Participants were recruited through snowball sampling. The study included 137 students from Portuguese higher education institutions, mainly women (74.5%), pursuing degrees or integrated Master's degrees (83.2%), primarily in health-related fields (55.5%). The median age was 21 years (20 to 23.5 years). About 70.0% regularly consumed food from vending machines, while approximately 60.0% brought lunch from home, avoiding the canteen. Factors such as convenience (48.5%), price (47.5%), product availability (40.6%), and taste (39.6%) mainly influenced vending machine choices. Monthly, chocolates, water, coffee, cookies, treats, and soft drinks were the most commonly acquired items, with coffee being the most frequent daily purchase. These findings provide insights for creating policies and initiatives to promote healthier and more accessible food options for students and strategies to encourage positive eating behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Oliveira
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
- Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Coimbra Health School, Rua 5 de Outubro–S. Martinho do Bispo, Apartado 7006, 3046-854 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mona N. BinMowyna
- College of Education, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11911, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ibrahim Alasqah
- Department of Community, Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia;
- School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Renata Puppin Zandonadi
- Department of Nutrition, School of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia (UnB), Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, Brasilia 70910-900, Brazil;
| | - Edite Teixeira-Lemos
- CERNAS Research Centre, Polytechnic University of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal;
| | - Cláudia Chaves
- ESSV, Centre for Studies in Education and Innovation (CI&DEI), Polytechnic University of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal;
| | - Hmidan A. Alturki
- King Abdulaziz City for Science & Technology, Wellness and Preventive Medicine Institute—Health Sector, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Najla A. Albaridi
- Department of Health Science, College of Health and Rehabilitation, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia;
| | | | - António Raposo
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
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Dahl AA, Fandetti SM, Ademu LO, Harris R, Racine EF. Assessing the Healthfulness of University Food Environments: A Systematic Review of Methods and Tools. Nutrients 2024; 16:1426. [PMID: 38794664 PMCID: PMC11123862 DOI: 10.3390/nu16101426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The availability, promotion, and price of healthy foods within the university food environment may impact students' dietary choices. This systematic review summarizes the tools and methods used to assess the healthfulness of university food environments where many students spend a significant portion of their emerging adulthood. Thirty-six global studies published between 2012 and 2022 were sourced from PubMed (NNLM), Cochrane Library (Wiley), Web of Science (Clarivate), APA PsycInfo (EBSCO), CINHAL Complete (EBSCO), ProQuest Nursing, and Allied Health, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Of the included studies, 58% were institutional-level audits, 17% examined individual-level perceptions, and 25% combined both. Most institutional-level audits focused on one aspect of the food environment (e.g., eateries, vending machines). For studies examining multiple spaces within the campus environment (38%), comprehensive assessments were limited, and most studies had to employ a combination of assessment tools. Surveys were most often used to gather individual perceptions about the food environment. The Nutrition Environment Measures Survey (NEMS) was the most commonly used tool across all studies. This review highlights the need for a standardized tool, method, or a "healthy" benchmark for specific use at universities to improve methodological rigor and comparability of findings across institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Anne Dahl
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Services, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
| | - Stacy M. Fandetti
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Services, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
| | - Lilian O. Ademu
- Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture, Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center at El Paso, Texas A&M University, El Paso, TX 79927, USA
| | - Ryan Harris
- J. Murrey Atkins Library, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
| | - Elizabeth F. Racine
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center at El Paso, Texas A&M University, El Paso, TX 79927, USA;
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Saavedra Clarke S, Parra-Soto S, Murillo G, Carpio-Arias V, Landaeta-Díaz L, Nava-González EJ, Ríos-Castillo I, Nuñez-Martínez BE, Gómez G, Araneda-Flores J, Cavagnari BM, Morales G, Meza Miranda ER, Bejarano-Roncancio JJ, Mauricio-Alza S, Cordón-Arrivillaga K, Durán-Agüero S. Self-Reported Nutritional Status and Breakfast Characterization in Latin American University Students. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN NUTRITION ASSOCIATION 2024; 43:252-260. [PMID: 37800672 DOI: 10.1080/27697061.2023.2263526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To associate breakfast consumption frequency with self-reported nutritional status and dietary patterns of Latin American university students by human development. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a cross-sectional, multicenter observational study. University students from 11 Latin American countries (Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, Paraguay, Panama and Uruguay) were invited to participate by answering an online self-administered questionnaire on food consumption and sociodemographic indicators, associations were investigated using logistic regression. RESULTS The logistic regression analysis showed significant associations between breakfast consumption and the crude model, models 2 and 3 in countries with very high and upper-middle/high human development. However, after adjustment in the most comprehensive model, the association is no longer statistically significant. In the fully adjusted model of the variables, a significant relationship was observed between breakfast consumption and both healthy and unhealthy dietary patterns. Specifically, students who typically consume breakfast exhibit greater consumption of oatmeal and fruits, as well as healthier dinner choices. Conversely, they exhibit lower consumption of fast food, sugary drinks, and juices. In particular, in highly developed countries, along with the mentioned foods, consumption of dairy was linked to breakfast consumption in a positive way, while alcohol consumption was negatively associated. CONCLUSION University students who eat breakfast on a regular basis maintain a healthier diet in comparison to those who do not, irrespective of their country's level of human development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Saavedra Clarke
- Carrera de Nutrición y Dietética, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Providencia, Chile
| | - Solange Parra-Soto
- Departamento de Nutrición y Salud Pública, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y de los Alimentos, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Chillán, Chile
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Gabriela Murillo
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica
| | - Valeria Carpio-Arias
- Grupo de Investigación en Alimentación y Nutrición Humana (GIANH), Facultad de Salud Pública, Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Riobamba, Ecuador
| | - Leslie Landaeta-Díaz
- Escuela de Nutrición y Dietética, Facultad de Salud y Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Las Américas, Santiago, Chile
- Núcleo en Ciencias Ambientales y Alimentarias (NCAA), Universidad de las Américas, Santiago, Chile
| | - Edna J Nava-González
- Facultad de Salud Pública y Nutrición, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, México
| | - Israel Ríos-Castillo
- Organización de las Naciones Unidas para la Alimentación y la Agricultura (FAO), Oficina Subregional de la FAO para Mesoamérica, Ciudad de Panama, Panama
- Escuela de Nutrición, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Panamá, Ciudad de Panama, Panama
| | | | - Georgina Gómez
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Costa Rica, San Pedro, Costa Rica
| | - Jacqueline Araneda-Flores
- Departamento de Nutrición y Salud Pública, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud y de los Alimentos, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Chillán, Chile
| | - Brian M Cavagnari
- Escuela de Nutrición, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gladys Morales
- Departamento de Salud Pública, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Eliana Romina Meza Miranda
- Universidad Nacional de Asunción - Centro Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Tecnológicas, San Lorenzo, Paraguay
| | | | | | - Karla Cordón-Arrivillaga
- Unidad de Investigación en Seguridad Alimentaria y Nutricional (UNISAN), Escuela de Nutrición, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Farmacia, Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala, Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala
| | - Samuel Durán-Agüero
- Escuela de Nutrición y Dietética, Facultad de Ciencias para el Cuidado de la Salud, Universidad San Sebastian, Chile
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10
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Almoraie NM, Alothmani NM, Alomari WD, Al-Amoudi AH. Addressing nutritional issues and eating behaviours among university students: a narrative review. Nutr Res Rev 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38356364 DOI: 10.1017/s0954422424000088] [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: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
University life is a critical period for establishing healthy eating habits and attitudes. However, university students are at risk of developing poor eating habits due to various factors, including economic conditions, academic stress and lack of information about nutritional concepts. Poor diet quality leads to malnutrition or overnutrition, increasing the risk of preventable diseases. Food environments on university campuses also play a significant role in shaping the dietary habits of students, with the availability of and accessibility to healthy food options being important factors influencing food choices and overall diet quality. Disordered eating habits and body dissatisfaction are prevalent among university students and can lead to eating disorders. Income and living arrangements also influence dietary habits, with low household income and living alone being associated with unhealthy eating habits. This study is a narrative review that aimed to address nutritional issues and eating behaviours, specifically among university students. We investigated the eating behaviours of university students, including their dietary patterns, food choices and food environments. The objective of this review was to provide insights into the nutritional issues and eating behaviours of university students, with the aim of identifying target areas for intervention to improve the overall health and wellbeing among college students. University food environments need to be restructured to promote healthy eating, including the availability, accessibility, affordability and labelling of healthy foods, and policies to limit the availability of unhealthy foods and drinks on campus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha M Almoraie
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noor M Alothmani
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wajd D Alomari
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal H Al-Amoudi
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Human Sciences and Design, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Fandetti SM, Dahl AA, Webster C, Bably MB, Coffman MJ, Racine EF. Healthy Food Policies Documented in University Food Service Contracts. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6617. [PMID: 37623200 PMCID: PMC10454280 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20166617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, there is an opportunity to improve the nutritional health of university students through the campus food environment. This project used a content analysis approach to investigate whether healthy food standards and policies were incorporated into the contract agreements between North Carolina (NC) public universities and their food service management companies. Food service contracts were collected from 14 NC public universities using food service management companies on campus. Each contract was evaluated using the 35-item North Carolina Food Service Policy Guidelines Assessment to examine four elements of the campus food environment: Beverages, Packaged Snacks, Prepared Foods, and Other (e.g., strategic placement of healthier food). Five university food service contracts incorporated no North Carolina Food Service Policy Guidelines, three university contracts included one to five guidelines, and six university contracts included six to nine guidelines. Altogether, 13 of the 35 guidelines were incorporated into at least one university food service contract. This project presents a cost and time-effective assessment method for determining if evidence-based nutrition guidelines have been included in university food service contracts. This approach and findings may lead to contract revisions to improve the campus food environment and, subsequently, the nutritional health of college populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy M. Fandetti
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (A.A.D.); (C.W.); (M.B.B.)
| | - Alicia Anne Dahl
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (A.A.D.); (C.W.); (M.B.B.)
| | - Caitlan Webster
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (A.A.D.); (C.W.); (M.B.B.)
| | - Morium Barakat Bably
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (A.A.D.); (C.W.); (M.B.B.)
| | - Maren J. Coffman
- School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
| | - Elizabeth F. Racine
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Texas A&M University, 1380 A and M Circle, El Paso, TX 79927, USA;
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12
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Caruso OT, Schaafsma HN, McEachern LW, Gilliland JA. The campus food environment and postsecondary student diet: a systematic review. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-25. [PMID: 37437204 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2227725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Examine the impact of the campus food environment on postsecondary students' dietary behaviors (e.g., dietary intake) and food purchasing. Participants: Students currently attending a postsecondary institution, all ages and geographic locations included. Methods: A systematic search from January 2000-October 2022 was conducted in six databases using postsecondary education, food environment, and diet related keywords. Results: In total, 25 quantitative and 10 qualitative studies were extracted. All quantitative studies that conducted statistical analyses (n = 15) reported a statistically significant relationship between the campus food environment and dietary intake, including both positive and negative effects. All qualitative studies (n = 10) discussed students' experience of the campus food environment influencing their diet. Conclusions: This review found moderate evidence that the campus food environment has an impact on postsecondary students' dietary behaviors. A campus environment that has healthy foods accessible, affordable, and acceptable for postsecondary students may have a beneficial impact on students' dietary intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia T Caruso
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Holly N Schaafsma
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Louise W McEachern
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Hammoudi Halat D, Hallit S, Younes S, AlFikany M, Khaled S, Krayem M, El Khatib S, Rahal M. Exploring the effects of health behaviors and mental health on students' academic achievement: a cross-sectional study on lebanese university students. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1228. [PMID: 37365573 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16184-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High academic achievement, an important determinant of future success, is known to be influenced by many factors including dietary behavior, lifestyle and mental health, among others. The objectives of the current study were to explore university students' nutritive habits, daily lifestyle, and mental status, and to scrutinize the associations between these factors and students' academic achievement. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among students of a private Lebanese university, using an electronic survey. Diet, eating habits, physical activity, sleep, and smoking were evaluated, and mental health was assessed using a validated Arabic version of the combined Depression, Anxiety, Stress Score (DASS-8). Academic achievement was measured using the Subjective Academic Achievement Scale (SAAS). RESULTS A total of 1677 students participated in the questionnaire. The results of a linear regression taking the SAAS score as the dependent variable, showed that students who have a non-scientific versus scientific major (Beta = 0.53), and having breakfast ≥ 4 days per week compared to less than 2 days (Beta = 0.28) were significantly associated with higher SAAS scores. More psychological distress (Beta = - 0.06) and a higher number of days of eating out (Beta = - 0.07) were significantly associated with lower SAAS scores. CONCLUSIONS This is the first investigation on a Lebanese university students' academic success in relation to lifestyle and mental profiles. Better academic achievement was demonstrated by students having healthier dietary and lifestyle habits, as well as less distressing mental status. Such results, in light of the compounded and unprecedented crises with which Lebanon has been assailed, suggest the need to focus on promoting healthy habits among students in higher education as a possible driver of better academic success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalal Hammoudi Halat
- Academic Quality Department, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon.
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.
- Department of Research, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
| | - Samar Younes
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Mira AlFikany
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Sanaa Khaled
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Maha Krayem
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
| | - Sami El Khatib
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
- Center for Applied Mathematics and Bioinformatics (CAMB), Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST), Hawally, Kuwait
| | - Mohamad Rahal
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
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Kouritzin T, Spence JC, Lee K. Food Intake and Food Selection Following Physical Relocation: A Scoping Review. Public Health Rev 2023; 44:1605516. [PMID: 36817863 PMCID: PMC9928753 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2023.1605516] [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: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To synthesize the current available evidence on the changes in food intake and food selection after physical relocation in non-refugee populations. Methods: The inclusion criteria were studies with a measurement of food selection and/or food intake in non-refugee populations where physical relocation had occurred with self-reported or objective assessment of the neighbourhood physical environment before and after relocation. Databases searched included MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and SCOPUS from 1946 to August 2022. Results: A total of four articles met the inclusion criteria. Overall, these studies gave longitudinal (n = 2) and cross-sectional (n = 2) evidence to suggest that moving to an urban neighbourhood with more convenience stores, cafés and restaurants around the home was associated with an increase in unhealthy food intake in adult populations. Additional factors such as income, vehicle access, cost, availability and perceptions of the local food environment played a role in shaping food selection and food intake. Conclusion: Four internal migration studies were found. The limited evidence base calls for more research. Future studies should include children and apply appropriate research designs to account for neighbourhood self-selection and concurrent life events. International migration studies should include assessment of neighbourhood physical environments pre- and post-relocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor Kouritzin
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada,*Correspondence: Trevor Kouritzin,
| | - John C. Spence
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Karen Lee
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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What's to Eat and Drink on Campus? Public and Planetary Health, Public Higher Education, and the Public Good. Nutrients 2022; 15:nu15010196. [PMID: 36615855 PMCID: PMC9823634 DOI: 10.3390/nu15010196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Public higher education institutions (PHEIs) have a unique and important role in responding to the public and planetary health crisis-they are centers of research on public and planetary health and of learning for young people, and have a public good mission. Yet, PHEI campus food environments are predominantly unhealthy and environmentally unsustainable, and associated with unhealthy food choices and unhealthy students. PHEIs are addressing high levels of student food insecurity (FI) that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable groups. Yet, because student FI is measured as individual access to adequate quantities of food, campus responses to FI often overlook unhealthy food environments. These environments result from neoliberal PHEI business policies that prioritize short-term revenue and encourage superfluous consumption, and unhealthy, environmentally harmful diets. PHEIs need to move beyond neoliberalism to honor their public good mission, including prioritizing health, the environment, and equity, in decisions about food on campus. My goal in this perspective is to encourage inclusive campus discussion about why this change is required to adequately respond to the crisis of student, public, and planetary health, and about how to begin.
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Liu C, Yu H. Neighborhood effects on dietary behaviors—evidence from older adults in China. Front Nutr 2022; 9:974471. [PMID: 37082563 PMCID: PMC10111188 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.974471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Individual neighborhood environment is an important predictor of dietary behavior. Using data from four waves of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS, 2004–2011), this study applied a panel data approach to examine the effects of neighborhood diet quality on the eating behaviors of older adults living in the same community. Results of the fixed effects estimation indicated a significant neighborhood effect within the community, and neighborhoods with high-quality diets had a significantly positive effect on the eating behavior of the elderly. The neighborhood effects on elderly eating behaviors were manifested in improved dietary structure, including decreased consumption of cereals and increased consumption of vegetables and fruits, as well as meat, eggs, and dairy products. In terms of nutrient intake, there was a significant increase in protein intake, and hence, a greater percentage of calories from protein. The estimation results were robust when different estimation methods or diet quality measures were used. Future policies for improving diet quality should consider neighborhood-level conditions, especially in rural areas where residents are closely connected and socially interact with one another.
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