Graduate Program

Family and Consumer Studies

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Semester of Degree Completion

2005

Thesis Director

Melanie Burns

Thesis Committee Member

Karla Kennedy-Hagan

Thesis Committee Member

Kathleen O'Rourke

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to assess the needs of Eastern Illinois University students regarding nutrition-related topics of concern and programming methods. Four hundred ninety-two students and four health professionals participated. The results indicate that students consume grains and vegetables in less than recommended amounts, fruits and dairy products within the recommended amounts, and meats, sweets, oils, and fats, and alcohol in excess. Nutritional issues affecting these students include management of weight, consumption of alcohol, and low intakes of iron, folate, and vitamin C. The perceptions of health professionals were not able to be compared to those of students; however, some of the students' perceptions are similar to reported nutrition-related issues. These findings can be used to improve nutrition education programming at small Midwestern universities.

Download

Share

COinS