Does College Major Influence Nutritional Choices?

Indianapolis, IN

Poor nutritional habits are at the core of many of the chronic disease that plague Americans and cause premature deaths. Does attending college and majoring in a science curriculum enhance awareness leading to greater knowledge of nutrition and a more positive attitude? If so, does this translate into making healthier food choices? The purpose of this study was to determine knowledge and attitudes about nutrition, and to assess the healthfulness of food choices in college science majors versus non-science majors. A detailed written 52 question survey was completed by Hanover College students ranging in age from 18 to 22 years. The survey was a general assessment designed to determine nutrition knowledge, attitudes towards nutrition and food choices. The survey also elicited demographic information (college major and year, height, weight, exposure to certain pertinent classes, smoking habits, and physical activity level). The survey was completed in various classes that encompassed a variety of majors. Data collection is still ongoing and will be completed soon. Extensive pilot data suggests the following: College science majors scored higher in nutrition knowledge and healthy food choices than non-science majors. Non-science majors scored higher in attitudes towards nutrition than science majors. The main finding, however, was that regardless of major, students exposed to a college level nutrition class scored better in all three categories. This supports implementation of a nutrition class for all students.