Taking an Undergraduate Nutrition Course Results in Favorable Attitudes Toward a Healthful Diet and Improved Intake of Several Key Nutrients

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to assess the impact of introductory undergraduate nutrition course on students’ attitudes toward healthy diet and on students’ intake of nutrients. A pre and post‐test design was used to assess changes in self‐reported nutrient intake. Open‐ended questions were asked to elicit responses about how/whether the course had any impact on their attitudes toward foods and dietary behavior. A statistically significant increase in fiber, folate, potassium, and calcium intake were observed, comparing post to pre‐test. A decrease in saturated fat intake in terms of energy percentage was observed. Increased awareness of the impact of diet on health was reported by students. A desire to increase intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and to decrease intake of fat and sugar was also reported. Students reported a willingness to eat less fast food and candies as well as drink fewer sodas. Thus, in this study a college nutrition course did effectively increase awareness of a healthy diet as well as change in attitude and modify dietary behavior.