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Sultan MTH, Shahar FS, Zain MIM, Komoo I. A systematic review of the role of integrated farming and the participation of universities in ensuring food security: Malaysia's effort. Ital J Food Saf 2024; 13:11854. [PMID: 38846045 PMCID: PMC11154168 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2024.11854] [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: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Food security is critical for promoting health and well-being and achieving sustainable development, especially in developing countries. Despite the recent efforts to improve it, food security is still a concern due to the rapid increase in populations, conflicts, and natural disasters worldwide. Universities, particularly agricultural universities, play an essential role in addressing food security issues by researching, developing new technologies, and providing education and training to farmers and other stakeholders. The main objective of this review is to discuss the role of universities and integrated farming in ensuring food security, specifically in Malaysia. It includes a brief overview of the different types of integrated farming methods that can be used to improve food security and finally discusses the Student Farmer Entrepreneur program, which can be crucial for promoting food security by increasing agricultural productivity, promoting local food production, encouraging sustainable agriculture practices, and supporting rural development. This review also considers the significant impact of the Malaysian government and universities on food security. With integrated farming and the Student Farmer Entrepreneur program, food security can be further improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Thariq Hameed Sultan
- Laboratory of Biocomposite Technology, Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor
- Aerospace Malaysia Innovation Center, Prime Minister’s Department, MIGHT Partnership Hub, Cyberjaya, Selangor
| | - Farah Syazwani Shahar
- Laboratory of Biocomposite Technology, Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor
| | - Mohd Izani Mohd Zain
- Department of Government and Civilization Studies, Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang
- Deputy Vice Chancellor (Student and Alumni Affairs), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu
| | - Ibrahim Komoo
- Chancellery Putra Building, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Campbell A, Stirling M, Keele N, Larkin A, Crandall R, Wilcox AN, Adair M, Malan C, Thomson J, Bennett A, Jensen H, Flygare H, Peterson L, Hopkins H, Kendrick N, Givler M, Charlton R, Kraus KN. Fruit and Vegetable Intake, Food Security, Barriers to Healthy Eating, and Empowerment among Dietetic Interns and Physician Assistant Interns: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study. Nutrients 2024; 16:1034. [PMID: 38613067 PMCID: PMC11013348 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071034] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Students are required to complete supervised practice hours prior to becoming Registered Dietitians and Physician Assistants. Research suggests that environmental and social factors affect dietetic interns' diets during their internship, although these factors have not been studied among physician assistant interns. This cross-sectional study utilized an online survey to compare dietetic interns' (n = 81) and physician assistant interns' (n = 79) fruit and vegetable intake, food security, barriers to healthy eating, and empowerment for making healthy dietary choices during an internship. Differences were assessed via independent t-tests and chi-square distributions. The significance was set at p < 0.05. Dietetic interns had a higher vegetable intake (p = 0.002) while physician assistant interns had higher rates of food insecurity (p = 0.040). Dietetic interns reported a greater impact on their dietary choices due to mental fatigue (p = 0.006), while physician assistant interns' dietary choices were more heavily impacted by peer influence, interactions with patients, and interactions with preceptors (p < 0.05). There was not a group difference in overall empowerment (p = 0.157), although both groups rated empowerment for asking for help with food and nutrition challenges the lowest of the empowerment sub-items. Addressing interns' unique needs may support students' educational success and wellbeing once they are professionals, promote a diverse workforce, and ensure optimal care for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Katie N. Kraus
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics & Food Sciences, College of Agricultural and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA; (A.C.); (M.S.); (N.K.); (A.L.); (R.C.); (A.N.W.); (M.A.); (C.M.); (J.T.); (A.B.); (H.J.); (H.F.); (L.P.); (H.H.); (N.K.); (M.G.); (R.C.)
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3
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Aldubaybi AA, Coneyworth LJ, Jethwa PH. Assessing the prevalence and potential drivers of food insecurity and the relationship with mental wellbeing in UK university students: A cross-sectional study. NUTR BULL 2024; 49:96-107. [PMID: 38311588 DOI: 10.1111/nbu.12662] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Food insecurity (FI) among university students in the United States has been associated with poor mental wellbeing, but very little is known about the relationship between FI and mental wellbeing in the UK university population. Here we examined the prevalence of FI, determined potential drivers for it and its relationship with mental wellbeing and coping ability. Students studying at UK universities (n = 289) completed an online self-reported questionnaire to obtain socio-economic characteristics including financial status, FI status (Household Food Insecurity Access scale), mental wellbeing (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale) and coping ability (coping flexibility scale). FI was observed in 28% of the participants and was associated with financial independence, running out of money, borrowing money and lacking confidence to purchase healthy foods (p < 0.05). Although we cannot determine directionality, logistic regression analysis revealed those who were judged as FI were more likely to shop often (OR = 3.139 95% CI 1.533-6.429), never snacked between meals (OR = 4.261 95% CI 1.309-13.875) and the amount of food purchased was affected by perceptions of the price of food in general (OR = 2.954 95% CI 1.675-5.210). Financial instability and the inability to access nutritious food may contribute to the decrease in mental wellbeing (p < 0.01) and lower ability to cope with stressful situations (p < 0.01) in food-insecure students although the direction of these relationships cannot be determined from this cross-sectional study. This study has identified that there is a need to develop appropriate strategies to combat FI in university students and to improve mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afnan A Aldubaybi
- Divisions of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Lisa J Coneyworth
- Divisions of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
| | - Preeti H Jethwa
- Divisions of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, UK
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Hammad NM, Leung CW. Food Insecurity Among Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Trainees. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2356894. [PMID: 38376842 PMCID: PMC10879943 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.56894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Food insecurity on college campuses has emerged as an urgent public health priority; however, there has been a lack of studies focused on graduate students or postdoctoral trainees, particularly those enrolled at private academic institutions. Objective To estimate the prevalence of and factors associated with food insecurity among graduate students and postdoctoral trainees at a private academic university in Boston, Massachusetts. Design, Setting, and Participants In this cross-sectional survey study, a survey on food insecurity was sent to graduate students and postdoctoral trainees at 3 health-focused graduate schools at Harvard University during the end of the spring 2023 academic term (April to June). Participants were studying medicine, dental medicine, or public health. Data analysis was performed from July to September 2023. Exposure Sociodemographic characteristics of graduate students and postdoctoral trainees. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was food insecurity as assessed using the US Household Food Security Survey Module. Food insecurity also encompassed low and very low food security. Bidirectional stepwise logistic regression models were conducted to estimate the factors associated with food insecurity for graduate students and postdoctoral trainees. Results The analytic sample included 1745 participants (response rate, 55%): 1287 were graduate students and 458 were postdoctoral trainees. The median age of respondents was 29.0 (IQR, 7.0) years, and more than half (1073 [61.5%]) identified as female. A total of 694 respondents (39.8%) identified as Asian, 625 (35.8%) as White, and 426 (24.4%) as being of other race or ethnicity. The prevalence of food insecurity was 17.4% (224 of 1287) among graduate students and 12.7% (58 of 458) among postdoctoral trainees. Among graduate students, factors associated with food insecurity included being Asian (OR, 1.06 [95% CI, 1.01-1.11]) or of other race or ethnicity (OR, 1.07 [95% CI, 1.02-1.13]), receiving financial aid (OR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.05-1.13]), and having housing instability (OR, 1.53 [95% CI, 1.45-1.61]). Among postdoctoral trainees, factors associated with food insecurity included receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (OR, 1.59 [95% CI, 1.28-1.97]), having housing instability (OR, 1.33 [95% CI, 1.22-1.45]), and not owning a car (OR, 1.11 [95% CI, 1.04-1.18]). Conclusions and Relevance In this study, a substantial proportion of graduate students and postdoctoral trainees at a private academic institution experienced food insecurity during the academic year. These findings underscore the need for national and institutional interventions to address the complex, structural factors related to food insecurity in these distinct populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour M. Hammad
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Cindy W. Leung
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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Hilal S, Kolozsvári LR, Indrayathi PA, Saeed SN, Rurik I. Psychological Distress and Food Insecurity among International Students at a Hungarian University: A Post-Pandemic Survey. Nutrients 2024; 16:241. [PMID: 38257134 PMCID: PMC10820830 DOI: 10.3390/nu16020241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was two-fold: Firstly, to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress among international students at a Hungarian university two years after the COVID-19 outbreak; and secondly, to identify its demographic and socioeconomic factors, with special regard to the students' food-security status. A cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire was carried out from 27 March to 3 July 2022 among international students at the University of Debrecen. The questionnaire included information on demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, food-security status (six-item United States Department of Agriculture Food Security Survey Module (USDA-FSSM)), and psychological distress (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21)). Bivariate analysis was conducted to examine the potential associations between demographic/socioeconomic factors and psychological distress. Additionally, multiple logistic regression was employed to further analyze these associations. Of 398 participants, 42.2%, 48.7%, and 29.4% reported mild to extremely severe depression, anxiety, and stress, respectively. The ages 18-24 (AOR = 2.619; 95% CI: 1.206-5.689) and 25-29 (AOR = 2.663; 95% CI: 1.159-6.119), reporting a low perception of health status (AOR = 1.726; 95% CI: 1.081-2.755), and being food insecure (AOR = 1.984; 95% CI: 1.274-3.090) were significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Being female (AOR = 1.674; 95% CI: 1.090-2.571), reporting a low perception of health status (AOR = 1.736; 95% CI: 1.098-2.744), and being food insecure (AOR = 2.047; 95% CI: 1.327-3.157) were significantly associated with anxiety symptoms. Furthermore, being female (AOR = 1.702; 95% CI: 1.026-2.824)), living with roommates (AOR = 1.977; 95% CI: 1.075-3.635), reporting a low perception of health status (AOR = 2.840; 95% CI: 1.678-4.807), and being food insecure (AOR = 2.295; 95% CI:1.398-3.767) were significantly associated with symptoms of stress. Psychosocial programs combined with strategies to alleviate food insecurity are required to enhance international students' mental health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soukaina Hilal
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (L.R.K.); (P.A.I.)
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
| | - László Róbert Kolozsvári
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (L.R.K.); (P.A.I.)
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
| | - Putu Ayu Indrayathi
- Department of Family and Occupational Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (L.R.K.); (P.A.I.)
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
| | - Sami Najmaddin Saeed
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, University of Debrecen, 4028 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Imre Rurik
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.N.S.); (I.R.)
- Department of Family Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
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Esin K, Ayyıldız F. Food insecurity, Mediterranean diet adherence, and psychosocial health among university students in Türkiye. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:649-659. [PMID: 38164907 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2023.2300405] [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: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The aim was to examine the relationship between food insecurity and adherence to the Mediterranean diet, academic achievement, depression, anxiety, and stress among university students. This cross-sectional study was conducted with 2039 university students studying in Türkiye. Sixty-eight point two per cent of the students were food insecure. Food security (FS) scores were negatively associated with adherence to the MD and academic achievement, and positively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress scores. A 1-unit increase in FS score resulted in a statistically significant increase of 0.458, 0.468, and 0.400 units in depression, anxiety, and stress scores, respectively, and a significant decrease of 0.140 units in the MD adherence screener score. Food insecurity among university students in Türkiye is very common, and students with food insecurity have low adherence to the MD and low academic achievement and high depression, anxiety, and stress scores. Financial support as well as financial and food literacy provided to students play an important role in managing food insecurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kubra Esin
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University, Tokat, Türkiye
| | - Feride Ayyıldız
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
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Lee Y, Yoon H, Kim T, Jung H. Food Insecurity during the Pandemic in South Korea: The Effects of University Students' Perceived Food Insecurity on Psychological Well-Being, Self-Efficacy, and Life Satisfaction. Foods 2023; 12:3429. [PMID: 37761140 PMCID: PMC10528267 DOI: 10.3390/foods12183429] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined the impact of university students' perceptions of food insecurity on psychological well-being, self-efficacy, and life satisfaction and observed that the students' gender plays a moderating role in this causal relationship, based on a total of 491 university students who participated in this empirical study. This study used SPSS (Version 22.0) and AMOS (Version 20.0) for the analyses. This study examines the structural relationship of this causal model. Our findings suggest that students' perceived food insecurity negatively affects the status of their psychological well-being and self-efficacy. However, contrary to expectations, perceived food insecurity has no negative effects on students' life satisfaction. In addition, the level of students' psychological well-being positively influences their life satisfaction, while self-efficacy does not. The moderating effects of gender differences in this research were also disclosed. Limitations and future research directions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoojin Lee
- Smart Education Platform, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (Y.L.); (T.K.)
| | - Hyehyun Yoon
- Department of Culinary Arts and Foodservice Management, College of Hotel & Tourism Management, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea;
| | - Taehee Kim
- Smart Education Platform, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; (Y.L.); (T.K.)
| | - Hyosun Jung
- Center for Converging Humanities, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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Celik ÖM, Ozyildirim C, Karacil Ermumcu MS. Evaluation of food insecurity and its association with food consumption and some variables among college students. JOURNAL OF HEALTH, POPULATION, AND NUTRITION 2023; 42:90. [PMID: 37658419 PMCID: PMC10472615 DOI: 10.1186/s41043-023-00436-9] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Students are an important group threatened by food insecurity. Food insecurity among college students is one of the research topics that is attracting attention worldwide, and interest in this topic is growing by the day. Food insecurity has a negative impact on students' biological, mental and social health. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of food insecurity and correlate it with frequency of food consumption and some variables among undergraduate students. METHODS This descriptive-analytical study was conducted with 1149 university students at Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey. The demographic characteristics of the individuals (gender, age, living situation, income status, and health information), anthropometric measurements (body weight and height), nutritional habits, frequency of food consumption, and Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) were questioned. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used for statistical analyses. RESULTS It was found that 13.1% of the students have mild, 13.0% moderate, and 9.4% severe food insecurity. The rate of individuals with and without food security differs according to gender, living situation, and income status (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant correlations between the food insecurity score and age (p = 0.047), the number of main meals (p < 0.001) and snacks (0.007), and consumption frequency of certain foods (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The prevalance of students facing food insecurity was high. Individuals with food insecurity have a lower frequency of healthy food consumption than individuals with food security. Steps should be taken to ensure nutritional security among undergraduate students, who are the young adult population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özge Mengi Celik
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Caner Ozyildirim
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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Rizk R, Haddad C, Sacre H, Malaeb D, Wachten H, Strahler J, Salameh P. Assessing the relationship between food insecurity and lifestyle behaviors among university students: a comparative study between Lebanon and Germany. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:807. [PMID: 37138254 PMCID: PMC10154760 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15694-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Food insecurity is a common public health problem in both developed and developing countries. This study aimed to profile food insecurity among university students in a developed country with stable economic circumstances (Germany) and a developing Mediterranean country undergoing a severe economic and financial crisis (Lebanon) and examine the associations between food insecurity and lifestyle behaviors (i.e., physical activity, sleep, and adherence to a healthy eating pattern, such as the Mediterranean diet), stress, and financial well-being. METHOD This online cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2021 and March 2022. Subjects were recruited through social media platforms (Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and personal email) and in-class announcements by several university professors of various majors and from different universities in Lebanon and Germany. The final sample included 547 participants (197 from Lebanon and 350 from Germany). RESULTS Our findings showed a higher food insecurity rate in Lebanon compared with Germany (59% versus 33%). In the bivariate analysis, food insecurity was associated with insomnia (r = 0.230; p < 0.001) and stress (r = 0.225; p = 0.001); German university students had higher physical activity (p < 0.001), better diet quality (p < 0.001), and lower adherence to the Mediterranean diet (p < 0001) than Lebanese students. In the multivariable analyses, more stress was related to insomnia (B = 0.178; p < 0.001), while financial well-being was not associated with any of the lifestyle behaviors. Physical activity, insomnia, and Mediterranean diet adherence were not associated with the country or food insecurity (p > 0.05); however, living in Germany was associated with better diet quality (B = -7.85; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The high prevalence of food insecurity reported in this study is alarming, particularly among Lebanese students; German students had better diet quality and higher physical activity but worse adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Moreover, food insecurity was also associated with worse sleep and stress. Further studies are necessary to assess the role of food insecurity as a mediating factor between sociodemographic characteristics and lifestyle behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Rizk
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Chadia Haddad
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon.
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon.
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
- School of Health Sciences, Modern University for Business and Science, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Hala Sacre
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Diana Malaeb
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
- College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hanna Wachten
- Sport Psychology, Institute of Sport and Sport Science, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg Im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Jana Strahler
- Sport Psychology, Institute of Sport and Sport Science, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg Im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Pascale Salameh
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadath, Lebanon
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University of Nicosia Medical School, 2417, Nicosia, Cyprus
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Jachim SK, Bowles BS, Panicker AJ, Yousaf I, Brown AD, Zoroufy AJ, Boehmer KR, Stonnington CM, Vadeboncoeur TF, Lujan JL, Ehlers SL, Schulze AJ. A single-center assessment of mental health and well-being in a biomedical sciences graduate program. Nat Biotechnol 2023; 41:728-733. [PMID: 37193845 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-023-01778-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Jachim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Bradley S Bowles
- Department of Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Iris Yousaf
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Alyssa D Brown
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Kasey R Boehmer
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | | | - J Luis Lujan
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Shawna L Ehlers
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Autumn J Schulze
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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González-Pérez R, García-Iruretagoyena L, Martinez-Perez N, Telleria-Aramburu N, Telletxea S, Padoan S, Torheim LE, Arroyo-Izaga M. Prevalence and Predictors of Food Insecurity among Students of a Spanish University during the COVID-19 Pandemic: FINESCOP Project at the UPV/EHU. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15081836. [PMID: 37111055 PMCID: PMC10142759 DOI: 10.3390/nu15081836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Research related to food insecurity (FI) among European university student populations is currently limited, especially the studies carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and identify possible predictors of FI among students from a Spanish public university, the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional observational study design was used, in which a total of 422 students completed an online survey. Results were weighted according to age and field of education. Binary logistic regressions adjusted by sex, age, and campus were applied to identify FI predictors. FI in 19.6, 2.6, and 0.7% of the population was mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. The three main predictors of FI were a decrease in the main source of income (OR, 2.80; 95% IC, 2.57-3.06), not receiving scholarships during the pandemic (OR, 2.32; 95% IC, 2.18-2.47), and living arrangements before the pandemic (not living with parents/relatives) (OR, 2.03, 95% IC, 1.89-2.18). This study found a high prevalence of FI among the students surveyed, and the strongest predictors of this FI were related to socioeconomic status. A robust and comprehensive policy response is recommended to mitigate FI in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel González-Pérez
- Department of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Laura García-Iruretagoyena
- Department of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Naiara Martinez-Perez
- Department of Nursing I, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain
- BIOMICs Research Group, Microfluidics & BIOMICs Cluster UPV/EHU, Lascaray Research Centre, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Nerea Telleria-Aramburu
- Department of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Saioa Telletxea
- Department of Social Psychology, Research Group in Social Psychology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20018 San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Sonia Padoan
- Department of Social Psychology, Research Group in Social Psychology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20018 San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Liv Elin Torheim
- Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), 0130 Oslo, Norway
| | - Marta Arroyo-Izaga
- Department of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- BIOMICs Research Group, Microfluidics & BIOMICs Cluster UPV/EHU, Lascaray Research Centre, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Bioaraba, BA04.03, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
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12
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Li Y, Yao P, Osman S, Zainudin N, Sabri MF. A Thematic Review on Using Food Delivery Services during the Pandemic: Insights for the Post-COVID-19 Era. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15267. [PMID: 36429983 PMCID: PMC9690128 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The food delivery service is the most typical and visible example of online-to-offline (O2O) commerce. More consumers are using food delivery services for various reasons during the COVID-19 pandemic, making this business model viral worldwide. In the post-pandemic era, offering food delivery services will become the new normal for restaurants. Although a growing number of publications have focused on consumer behavior in this issue, no review paper has addressed current research and industry trends. Thus, this paper aims to review the literature published from 2020 to the present (October 2022) on consumers' use of food delivery services during the pandemic. A thematic review was conducted, with 40 articles searched from Scopus and Web of Science being included. Quantitative findings showed current research trends, and thematic analyses formed eight themes of factors influencing consumer behavior: (1) technical and utilitarian factors, (2) system-related attributes, (3) emotional and hedonic factors, (4) individual characteristics, (5) service quality, (6) risk-related factors, (7) social factors, and (8) food-related attributes. The paper also emphasizes COVID-19-related influences and suggests promising future research directions. The results offer insights into industry practices and starting points for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yezheng Li
- Business School, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Pinyi Yao
- Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia
| | - Syuhaily Osman
- Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia
| | - Norzalina Zainudin
- Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia
| | - Mohamad Fazli Sabri
- Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Malaysia
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13
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Guzman PG, Lange JE, McClain AC. The Association between Food Security Status and Psychological Distress and Loneliness among Full-Time Undergraduate Students at a Minority-Serving Institution. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15245. [PMID: 36429963 PMCID: PMC9690574 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the relationship of food security (FS) status with mental health among students at minority-serving institutions. We aimed to elucidate the association of FS status with psychological distress and loneliness among full-time undergraduate students at a minority-serving institution. We used data from the National Collegiate Health Assessment III (n = 441). To assess FS, students responded to the USDA 6-item short form (range: 0-6) and responses were categorized as high (0), marginal (1) or low/very low (2-6) FS. The Kessler 6 scale assessed psychological distress (range: 0-24). The UCLA loneliness scale assessed loneliness (range: 3-9). Higher scores indicated higher psychological distress and loneliness. Using adjusted linear regression models, we examined the association of FS with psychological distress and loneliness. Compared to students with high FS (mean (SD): 9.4 (0.8)), students with marginal (11.4 (1.0); p < 0.05) or low/very low (11.8 (0.8); p < 0.01) FS had higher psychological distress scores. Compared to students with high FS (5.5 (0.3)), students with low/very low FS (6.0 (0.3); p < 0.05) had higher loneliness scores. Future studies should further explore these relationships using mixed methods, to provide complementary quantitative findings with the emic perspective of students and their experiences, which can inform programming to prevent and reduce food insecurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro G. Guzman
- School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-7251, USA
| | - James E. Lange
- Well-Being & Health Promotion Department, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-4705, USA
| | - Amanda C. McClain
- School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-7251, USA
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14
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Kobulsky JM, Yoon D, Villodas MT, Schuler BR, Wildfeuer R, Reyes JN. Neglect, Abuse, and Adaptive Functioning: Food Security and Housing Stability as Protective Factors for Adolescents. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9030390. [PMID: 35327762 PMCID: PMC8946869 DOI: 10.3390/children9030390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study addresses gaps in knowledge of protective factors that support adaptive functioning among maltreated adolescents. The sample included 1003 high-risk youths participating in the Longitudinal Studies of Child Abuse and Neglect (53% female, 56% Black, and 82% living in poverty). Adolescent neglect (Exposure to Risky Situations, Lack of Monitoring, Inattention to Basic Needs, Permitting Misbehavior, Lack of Support) and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse were self-reported at age 16. Age 18 adaptive functioning measures included healthcare receipt (medical, dental, and mental health), self-rated global health, high school graduation or enrollment, prosocial activities, peer relationships (Companionship, Conflict, Satisfaction, and Intimacy), and independent living skills. Previous childhood maltreatment, demographics, and earlier prosocial activities and peer relationships were controls. Structural equation modeling showed that adolescent neglect and abuse were associated with lower adaptive functioning. Multigroup models showed protective effects for food security on the relationships between sexual abuse and self-rated health and between Inadequate Monitoring and Companionship. Housing stability buffered relationships between Inadequate Support and high school graduation or enrollment and between Permitting Misbehavior and independent living skills. Findings imply the need for adolescent-focused prevention, including the promotion of food security and housing stability to support adaptive functioning in maltreated adolescents. However, notable mixed findings show the need for additional research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia M. Kobulsky
- School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-215-204-2843
| | - Dalhee Yoon
- Department of Social Work, Binghamton University-State University of New York, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA;
| | - Miguel T. Villodas
- Department of Psychology, College of Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92121, USA;
| | - Brittany R. Schuler
- School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
| | - Rachel Wildfeuer
- Department of Sociology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
| | - José N. Reyes
- Department of Health Services Administration and Policy, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
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15
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Shafiee NH, Razalli NH, Muhammad Nawawi KN, Mohd Mokhtar N, Raja Ali RA. Implication of food insecurity on the gut microbiota and its potential relevance to a multi‐ethnic population in Malaysia. JGH OPEN 2022; 6:112-119. [PMID: 35155820 PMCID: PMC8829104 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.12709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Food insecurity (FI) has an impact on food intake, and it can make it difficult for people to eat enough nutritious food at all times to sustain an active and healthy lifestyle. The COVID‐19 outbreak has hampered people's capacity to obtain nutritious and affordable food. Although FI has been studied in Malaysia, the extent to which it is linked to gut microbiota has yet to be discovered. This review aimed to compile evidence of the relationship between FI and gut microbial changes and their potential relevance to a multi‐ethnic population in Malaysia. FI is typically associated with cheaper and calorie‐dense foods because of the high cost of quality food and financial constraints that hinder food‐insecure people from adopting healthier dietary choices. As a result, they have started eating low‐quality food such as simple carbohydrates, fats, and processed foods. These poor eating habits can reduce microbial diversity and influence changes in the composition and function of the gut microbiota. This review also explores the impact of ethnicity on the variation in composition of gut microbiota. In conclusion, the findings of this review may be utilized to develop and implement diet‐related intervention programs to ensure that Malaysians get enough nutritious food to maintain a healthy gut microbiota and improve overall health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nor H Shafiee
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - Nurul H Razalli
- Dietetics Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
- GUT Research Group, Faculty of Medicine Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - Khairul N Muhammad Nawawi
- GUT Research Group, Faculty of Medicine Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine UKM Medical Centre Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - Norfilza Mohd Mokhtar
- GUT Research Group, Faculty of Medicine Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - Raja Affendi Raja Ali
- GUT Research Group, Faculty of Medicine Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine UKM Medical Centre Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
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16
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The prevalence of food insecurity among UK university students. Proc Nutr Soc 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s0029665122002099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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17
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Food insecurity and mental health of college students in Lebanon: a cross-sectional study. J Nutr Sci 2022; 11:e68. [PMID: 36106091 PMCID: PMC9428660 DOI: 10.1017/jns.2022.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of food insecurity (FI) among college students and explore its association with indicators of mental and psychosocial health. Data were collected using a cross-sectional online survey from college students in different universities in Lebanon during the Spring 2021 semester. FI was assessed using the validated eight-item food insecurity experience scale. The mental health of college students was assessed using validated screening tools for depression, anxiety and well-being, namely the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and the World Health Organization (WHO-5) index, respectively. Multiple linear regression models were conducted to assess the relationship of FI with PHQ-9, GAD-7 and WHO-5 scores. A total of 745 students completed the online survey. Approximately 39 % of students in the sample were experiencing FI of which 27·4, 8·1, and 3·5 % were experiencing mild, moderate and severe FI , respectively. Low maternal education, low household monthly income and high levels of stress were significant correlates of FI among college students (P-trend < 0·001). In addition, 22·6 and 34·4 % of students showed severe symptoms of depression and anxiety, respectively. Regression models showed that FI was associated with higher scores on PHQ-9 and GAD-7 (β = 2·45; 95 % CI [1·41, 3·49]) and (β = 1·4; 95 % CI [1·1, 2·2], respectively) and lower scores on WHO-5 (β = −4·84; 95 % CI [−8·2, −1·5]). In conclusion, a remarkable proportion of college students reported experiencing different forms of FI, which was associated with poorer mental health and well-being outcomes. Public health programmes and interventions are needed to mitigate FI and improve student health-related outcomes.
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