Publications : 2024

Rana Z, Frankenfeld CL, Kennedy E, Bertoldi J, de Jonge E, Cheskin L. 2024. Food sources of energy and nutrients among US college students: The Health Starts Here cohort study. J Am Coll Health; doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2023.2220397. Online ahead of print, June 8, 2024. PMID: 37290009.

Abstract

Objective: Identifying the food sources contributing most to total energy percentage, macronutrients, vitamin and mineral consumption among college freshmen, and whether sex played a role. Participants: First-year undergraduate students (N = 269). Methods: Diet was assessed using a DHQ-III and estimated with food source composition tables. Nutrient intakes were expressed as a percentage of total dietary intakes for each food category. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to determine the differences between the two sexes for each food category. Results: A significant proportion of energy and nutrients is contributed by certain food categories, such as grain products, meat, poultry, fish; however, other less desirable sources of energy and nutrient are also identified, including sugary and sports drinks. Among female students, a greater portion of nutritional intakes came from healthier choices. Conclusions: A majority of total energy intake comes from food categories that are energy-dense but also provide essential nutrients.