Abstract
Transitioning to college represents a critical time period in which healthy eating can become a challenge and physical activity levels decline. Those that do not meet the guidelines for dietary intake and physical activity are at a higher risk for diseases such as diabetes and obesity. To better understand some behaviors that may contribute to these diseases this study examined the dietary intake and physical activity behaviors of black college women. Participants were recruited using flyers placed in common areas on Florida A&M University’s campus. Prior to completing the 30-item questionnaire the participants received a letter of introduction which contained all elements of consent. Analyses of the data was completed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. A total of 157 participants completed the questionnaire. On average the participants were graduate students, lived off campus and had a Body Mass Index between 18.5-24.9. Since entering college almost 47% of the participants agreed that their diet has become worse and 25% of the of the participants indicated that they participate in physical activity at least two days per week. In the case of diet and classification 67.7% of the juniors reported that their diet is worse since entering college (p-value< 0.05). This study sheds light on the dietary intake and physical activity behaviors of black women that attend Florida A&M University. It also provides a foundation to develop a culturally sensitive health education program that addresses the levels of the socioecological model.
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