The “freshman 15” is a common joke at colleges, but there’s real science behind it. Many new students do not meet basic dietary guidelines, leading to weight gain.
Catherine Andersen, a professor of nutritional sciences, explains why this happens: “When students first arrive at college, they have more freedom in what they eat and often choose less healthy options.” These early eating habits can lead to serious health issues later in life, such as obesity and other chronic diseases.
Research has examined how university food environments impact student diets. However, many studies focus only on one area, like dining halls or vending machines. Andersen’s recent study, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, offers a broader view by looking at various dining options at a small liberal arts university.
She and her team analyzed the nutritional content of food at different locations on campus, including the main dining hall, a grab-and-go shop, the food court, vending machines, and a coffee shop. They checked averages for calories, fat, sugar, protein, fiber, sodium, and carbs.
The dining hall had the best options overall, with lower calories and sugar and higher fiber. Surprisingly, vending machines offered the lowest sodium compared to other spots. This finding challenges the assumption that healthier choices are always from dining halls or restaurants.
Andersen also noted that the time of day affects food quality. Breakfast often has more sugar and less protein than lunch or dinner. “Depending on when you eat, you might face a different selection,” she shared. This observation came from student feedback. Many students mentioned that their class schedules make it tough to eat at normal dining hours.
This pilot study could lead to more research at larger universities, such as UConn. Andersen stresses that busy schedules can make healthy eating tricky. It’s crucial for students to think about their food options and how their environment plays a role in their choices.
Recent statistics show that about 70% of college students report gaining weight during their first year. This trend highlights the significance of addressing dietary habits early on. A better understanding of food environments in colleges can help promote healthier eating among students.
In any case, navigating college meals doesn’t just hinge on personal choices; it’s about the broader food environment too. Exploring ways to improve these settings can make a real difference in student health and well-being.
This research was supported by the National Consortium for Building Healthy Academic Communities and aligns with efforts to enhance public health. For more insights, you can check the CAHNR strategic vision.
