scholarly journals UniStArt: A 12-Month Prospective Observational Study of Body Weight, Dietary Intake, and Physical Activity Levels in Australian First-Year University Students

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nina Wilson ◽  
Anthony Villani ◽  
Sze-Yen Tan ◽  
Evangeline Mantzioris
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Body Weight ◽  
Observational Study ◽  
University Students ◽  
Dietary Intake ◽  
Saturated Fat ◽  
First Year ◽  
Activity Levels ◽  
Sedentary Behaviours ◽  
First Year University

Background: Students in the United States gain weight significantly during their first year of university, but limited data is available for Australian students. Methods: This 12-month observational study was conducA 12-Month Prospective Observational Study of Body Weight, Dietary Intake, and Physical Activity Levels in Australian First-Year University Studentsted to monitor monthly body weight and body composition, as well as quarterly eating behaviours, dietary intake, physical activity, sedentary behaviours, and basal metabolic rate changes amongst first-year Australian university students. Participants were first-year university students over 18 years. Results: Twenty-two first-year university students (5 males, 17 females) completed the study. Female students gained weight significantly at two, three and four-months (+0.9 kg; +1.5kg; +1.1 kg, p <0.05). Female waist circumference (2.5cm increase at two-months, p=0.012) and body fat also increased (+0.7%, p=0.04 at two-months; +0.9%, p=0.026 at three-months). Intake of sugar, saturated fat (both >10% of total energy) and sodium exceeded recommended levels (>2300 mg) at 12-months. Greater sedentary behaviours were observed amongst male students throughout the study (p <0.05). Conclusions: Female students are at risk of unfavourable changes in body composition during the first year of university, while males are at risk of increased sedentary behaviours. High intakes of saturated fat, sugars and sodium warrant future interventions in such a vulnerable group.

scholarly journals Effects of peer influence on dietary intake and physical activity in schoolchildren

2009 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
pp. 376-383 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tara Finnerty ◽  
Sue Reeves ◽  
Jaqueline Dabinett ◽  
Yvonne M Jeanes ◽  
Claus Vögele
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Dietary Intake ◽  
Peer Influence ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Saturated Fat ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Activity Levels ◽  
Anthropometric Measures ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Physical Activity Levels

AbstractObjectiveTo investigate the dietary intake and physical activity of boys and girls aged 9–13 years, and the influence of peers on these behaviours.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingNine primary and secondary schools in south-west London.SubjectsA total of 315 children wore sealed pedometers, provided self-report measures of dietary intake and answered a questionnaire relating to peer influence. Anthropometric measures of height and weight were also obtained.ResultsObese children had the lowest reported energy intakes and the lowest step counts per day. Boys took significantly more steps per day than girls, however girls were closer to achieving their recommended cut-offs for physical activity. Girls had lower energy intakes per day and lower BMI Z-scores than boys, however both genders, across all age groups, had higher than recommended intakes of saturated fat. There were significant associations between peer influence and physical activity levels but not between peer influence and dietary intake.ConclusionsLow energy intake and physical activity levels but high saturated fat intakes among boys and girls across all age groups highlight the importance of promoting both physical activity and healthy food choices. The finding that peers have a significant effect on physical activity levels but not on dietary intake offers an important approach for the design of health promotion interventions and obesity prevention programmes. Such designs may be particularly beneficial for obese youth, since the low physical activity levels found could be a major contributing factor to the maintenance of the condition.

scholarly journals The Impact of a Web-Based Mindfulness, Nutrition and Fitness Platform on the Health Status of First-Year University Students: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Claire F Trottier ◽  
Jessica RL Lieffers ◽  
Steven T Johnson ◽  
João F Mota ◽  
Roshni K Gill ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
University Students ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Mental Wellbeing ◽  
Control Group ◽  
First Year ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Related Quality ◽  
First Year University ◽  
The Impact

BACKGROUND First-year university students are at increased risk for presenting with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts and poor nutritional status. Self-care plays an essential role in optimizing mental health and can prevent/treat stress, anxiety and depression. Web-based self-monitoring of diet and physical activity can lead to similar or improved health outcomes compared to conventional methods. Such tools are also popular among university students. OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this 12-week randomized control trial was to assess the impact of a web-based wellness platform on perceived stress among first-year university students. The study’s secondary outcome was to assess the effects of the platform on diet quality and exploratory outcomes were body composition, health related quality of life, mindfulness, mental wellbeing and physical activity. METHODS Ninety-seven first-year undergraduate students were randomized to either the intervention (n=48) or control (n=49) group. The intervention consisted of access to a web-based platform called My Viva Plan® (MVP) which aims to support healthy living on the topics of mindfulness, nutrition, and fitness. The platform is fully automated and is guided by principals of cognitive behavior theory. Participants in the intervention group were instructed to use MVP as frequently as possible over 12 weeks. The control group did not receive access to MVP. Perceived stress was assessed using the Stress Indicators Questionnaire at baseline, week 6 and week 12. Three day food records were used to analyze dietary intake at baseline and week 12. Health related quality of life, mindfulness, mental wellbeing and physical activity questionnaires were completed at baseline, week 6 and week 12 and body composition was assessed at baseline and week 12. Study assessments were completed in-person at baseline and week 12 and electronically at week 6. RESULTS Study recruitment started in August 2018 with batch enrollment for students registered in the fall (September 2018 to December 2018) and winter (January 2019 to April 2019) academic terms at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta. Eighty participants completed the 12-week trial (n=35 in the intervention group; n=45 in the control group). All data collection ended in May 2019. CONCLUSIONS This project is the first to explore the impact of an online platform designed to promote health and wellness; it will also shed light into its applicability in first-year university students. If successful, this may become an important health care tool for preventative care in first year university students. CLINICALTRIAL ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03579264

Physical Activity and Associated Constraints Following the Transition From High School to University

2021 ◽  
Vol 45 (1) ◽  
pp. 52-60
Author(s):  
Oliver W. A. Wilson ◽  
Simon R. Walters ◽  
Michael E. Naylor ◽  
Jenny C. Clarke
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
University Students ◽  
Time Management ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
First Year ◽  
Transition To University ◽  
Transition From High School ◽  
First Year University ◽  
Quantitative And Qualitative Methods ◽  
Shed Light

The considerable changes in physical activity (PA) during the transition to university are likely associated with changes in PA constraints during this transition. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in PA and associated constraints among first-year university students during the transition to university. Data concerning sociodemographic characteristics, PA behaviors, and changes in PA and constraints were collected from 121 first-year New Zealand university students via an online survey. Data were analyzed using quantitative and qualitative methods. Findings revealed that following the transition, PA declined significantly, that PA participation patterns/trends had changed (from team/group sports to individual activities and to less competitive and/or more social activities), and that changes in constraints (intrapersonal, interpersonal, and time management) may have influenced changes. Findings shed light on how changes in constraints potentially influence PA following the transition and provide evidence to inform the development of policies and interventions to promote student PA.

scholarly journals Physical Activity, Loneliness, and Meaning of Friendship in Young Individuals – A Mixed-Methods Investigation Prior to and During the COVID-19 Pandemic With Three Cross-Sectional Studies

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sonia Lippke ◽  
Marie Annika Fischer ◽  
Tiara Ratz
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
University Students ◽  
Social Interactions ◽  
Mixed Methods Research ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Team Sports ◽  
First Year ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
First Year University

Meaningful social interactions and regular physical activity are inversely associated with loneliness. Using a mixed-methods research design employing quantitative and qualitative research approaches, this research aimed to explore loneliness, physical activity, friendship, and experiences relating to the COVID-19 pandemic both prior to and during the pandemic. Quantitative data of (1) n = 363 first-year university students assessed in 2018/2019 and of (2) n = 175 individuals aged 18–29 years assessed in 2020 were gathered using independent self-administered online surveys. In addition, (3) n = 4 students were recruited for semi-structured, qualitative interviews in 2020 during the onset phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Correlation and regression analyses as well as analyses of variance were conducted. Thematic analysis as a qualitative method was used to explore the role physical activity, friendship, and social interactions played in loneliness, particularly in times of social isolation and social distancing. Results revealed associations of varying strength between physical activity and loneliness in 2018/2019 (r = −0.09, p ≤ 0.05) and 2020 (r = −0.20, p < 0.01). In 2020, n = 73 (41.7%) participants felt that their loneliness had increased since the COVID-19 social and physical distancing guidelines were introduced, but this was not associated with a perceived change in physical activity (r = −0.05, p > 0.05). Analyses of qualitative data revealed three main themes: (1) the lack of deep friendships at university, (2) the positive perceived impact of team sports on feelings of loneliness, and (3) the need for real connection in times of crisis. Thus, with regard to feelings of loneliness during the pandemic, being physically active seems to be a small but potentially relevant factor among young individuals. The qualitative study suggests that first-year university students might buffer the lack of deep friendships and meaningful interactions by building social bonds in team sports. In times of physical distancing, young individuals vulnerable to loneliness may therefore require special support such as doing sports with physical distance and perceiving connected with their team for instance by digital devices and emotional coping.

scholarly journals The Impact of a Web-Based Mindfulness, Nutrition, and Physical Activity Platform on the Health Status of First-Year University Students: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

10.2196/24534 ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. e24534
Author(s):  
Claire F Trottier ◽  
Jessica R L Lieffers ◽  
Steven T Johnson ◽  
João F Mota ◽  
Roshni K Gill ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
University Students ◽  
Perceived Stress ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Well Being ◽  
First Year ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Related Quality ◽  
First Year University ◽  
The Impact

Background First-year university students are at an increased risk for developing mental health issues and a poor nutritional status. Self-care plays an essential role in optimizing mental health and can prevent or manage stress, anxiety, and depression. Web-based self-monitoring of diet and physical activity can lead to similar or improved health outcomes compared with conventional methods. Such tools are also popular among university students. Objective The primary aim of this 12-week randomized controlled trial is to assess the impact of a web-based wellness platform on perceived stress among first-year university students. The secondary aim is to assess the effects of the platform on diet quality. The exploratory objectives are to explore the effects of the platform on body composition, health-related quality of life, mindfulness, mental well-being, and physical activity. Methods A total of 97 first-year undergraduate students were randomized to either the intervention (n=48) or control (n=49) group. The intervention consisted of access to a web-based platform called My Viva Plan (MVP), which aims to support healthy living by focusing on the topics of mindfulness, nutrition, and physical activity. The platform is fully automated and guided by the principles of cognitive behavioral theory. Participants in the intervention group were instructed to use the MVP as frequently as possible over 12 weeks. The control group did not receive access to MVP. Perceived stress was assessed using the Stress Indicators Questionnaire at baseline, week 6, and week 12. Three-day food records were used to analyze the dietary intake at baseline and week 12. Health-related quality of life, mindfulness, mental well-being, and physical activity questionnaires were completed at baseline, week 6, and week 12. Body composition was assessed at baseline and week 12. Study assessments were completed in person at baseline and week 12 and electronically at week 6. Results Study recruitment started in August 2018, with batch enrollment for students registered in the fall (September 2018 to December 2018) and winter (January 2019 to April 2019) academic terms at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta. Conclusions This study is the first to explore the impact of a web-based platform designed to promote health and wellness on perceived stress and diet quality among first-year university students. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03579264; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03579264. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/24534

scholarly journals The effect of race/ethnicity on obesity traits in first year university students from Canada: The GENEiUS study

PLoS ONE ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (11) ◽  
pp. e0242714
Author(s):  
Tanmay Sharma ◽  
Baanu Manoharan ◽  
Christine Langlois ◽  
Rita E. Morassut ◽  
David Meyre
Keyword(s):  
Body Weight ◽  
University Students ◽  
South Asians ◽  
First Year ◽  
Hip Circumference ◽  
East Asians ◽  
First Year Students ◽  
Race Ethnicity ◽  
First Year University ◽  
Academic Year

Background Little is known about the impact of race/ethnicity on weight change at university. The objective of this study is to determine if ethnicity has an impact on obesity traits in a multiethnic cohort of first-year students at McMaster University in Ontario, Canada. Methods 183 first year students from the three most represented ethnic groups (South Asian, East Asian, and white-Caucasian) in our study sample were followed longitudinally with data collected early in the academic year and towards the end of the year. Obesity parameters including body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumference, and waist hip ratio (WHR) were analyzed. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for pairwise comparison of traits from the beginning to the end of the year in the absence of adjustments. Linear regression was used with covariate adjustments to investigate the effect of ethnicity on obesity traits. Results A significant increase in weight by 1.49 kg (95%CI: 1.13–1.85) was observed over the academic year in the overall analyzed sample. This was accompanied by significant gains in BMI, waist and hip circumferences, and WHR. Ethnicity stratified analysis indicated significant increase in all investigated obesity traits in East Asians and all traits, but WHR, in South Asians. White-Caucasians only displayed significant increases in weight and BMI. Body weight and hip circumference were significantly lower in East Asians compared to white-Caucasians at baseline. However, East Asians displayed a significantly larger increase in mean BMI and weight compared to white-Caucasians after first-year. South Asians displayed larger waist circumference at baseline compared to East Asians and larger WHR compared to white-Caucasians. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that ethnicity has an impact on obesity traits in first-year university students. Universities should take ethnicity into account while implementing effective obesity prevention programs to promote healthy and active lifestyles for students.

scholarly journals The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on university students’ dietary intake, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leandy Bertrand ◽  
Keely A. Shaw ◽  
Jongbum Ko ◽  
Dalton Deprez ◽  
Philip D. Chilibeck ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
University Students ◽  
Dietary Intake ◽  
Sedentary Behaviour ◽  
Alcohol Intake ◽  
Vigorous Physical Activity ◽  
Activity Levels ◽  
Sedentary Activity ◽  
Online Questionnaire ◽  
The Impact

University students are a vulnerable group for poor dietary intake, insufficient physical activity and sedentary behaviour. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on university students’ dietary intake, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour. Participants were students (n = 125) from the Universities of Saskatchewan and Regina. An online questionnaire was administered retrospectively (for prepandemic) and prospectively (during the pandemic) to examine students’ dietary intake, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour. Overall, nutrient and caloric intakes were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) during the pandemic, and alcohol intake increased (p = 0.03). Before the pandemic, 16% and 54% of the participants were meeting the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Adults (18–64 years) of 150 min of moderate−vigorous physical activity and 8 h or less of sedentary activity, respectively. Only 10% met the guidelines for physical activity while 30% met the guidelines for sedentary behaviour during the pandemic. The minutes per week spent engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity during the pandemic decreased by approximately 20% (p < 0.001). The hours spent in sedentary activities increased by 3 h per day (p < 0.001). Our findings confirm that during the pandemic, students’ inadequate dietary intake, high alcohol consumption, low physical activity, and high sedentary behaviour were significantly compounded. Novelty: During COVID-19, the nutrient and caloric intakes of university students decreased, and alcohol intake increased significantly. University students’ physical activity levels decreased, and sedentary activity increased significantly during COVID-19. During COVID-19 students did not engage in sufficient physical activity to offset the increased sedentary behaviour.

scholarly journals The Relationship Between Minutes of Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity and Dietary Intake in College Students (P16-004-19)

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jennifer Barnes ◽  
Samantha Concha ◽  
Erin Fejes ◽  
Jonathan Grimwood ◽  
Karen Dennis ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
College Students ◽  
Dietary Intake ◽  
Vigorous Physical Activity ◽  
Saturated Fat ◽  
Activity Levels ◽  
Fiber Intake ◽  
Activity Data ◽  
Added Sugar ◽  
The Relationship

Abstract Objectives Dietary compensation for energy expenditure is one hypothesis for why many individuals struggle to maintain a healthy body weight. The objective of this investigation was to assess the relationship between the amount of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and dietary intake of college students within corresponding 24-hour periods. Methods College students enrolled in a personal health and fitness class were recruited to participate in this study. As part of the course, all students completed a 7 day food journal and were concurrently assigned to wear a Polar Active fitness tracker with a tracker wear time of 24 hours per day. Physical activity data was collected from consenting participants and served as the independent variable. Dietary intake including but not limited to total kilocalories (kcals), carbohydrate (CHO), protein, fat, and selected micronutrients were also collected. Pearson correlations were assessed using SPSS between physical activity and dietary variables. Further, amount of daily MVPA was divided into <30 minutes, 30–60 minutes, and > 60 minutes per recorded day. ANOVA was utilized to compare dietary means of various activity levels. Results A total of 110 students participated in this study with 50% female, 45% male, 5% that did not answer, mean age of 21.3 (±1.7) and BMI 24.7 (±3.7). A weak but positive correlation was identified between total minutes of MVPA and total kcal intake (r = 0.124, P = 0.007). The total intake of fat (g) (r = 0.16, P < 0.001), saturated fat (g) (r = 0.11, P = 0.01), CHO (g) (r = 0.17, P < 0.001), protein (g) (r = 0.10, P = 0.03), and added sugar (r = 0.09, P = 0.04) increased with greater time spent in MVPA. No relationship was detected for fiber intake. When participants were separated into physical activity categories, those in the lowest category consumed more trans-fat than both the middle and high category (P = 0.003). Conclusions College students in this study tended to increase their overall intake as physical activity increased. The lack of relationship between physical activity and fiber intake in combination with the positive relationship detected with added sugar suggests that the quality of carbohydrate may decrease as students perform more physical activity. Funding Sources None to report.

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