19th Annual Student Research Conference
Human Potential and Performance
Relationship of Breakfast Consumption and Body Mass Index in College Students
Jennifer L. Salmon*, Cassie J. Morrow, and Rachel Mintle
Prof. Liz Jorn, Faculty Mentor
This study examined the breakfast habits of college students. Female (n=109, Wt=144.5 ±29.8lbs) and male (n=67, Wt.=179.4 ±43.2lbs) students completed a breakfast survey as part of a required lifetime health class at a small, Midwestern university. Results indicated that 63% of the students consumed breakfast regularly. The BMI of breakfast consumers was 24.2 ±4.6 and breakfast skippers was 25.7 ±5.8. An independent t-test indicated that for males there was a significant difference (t=2.375, p<0.05) between the BMI for students that ate breakfast and those who skipped. Results showed male students who skipped breakfast had a significantly higher BMI (27.3 ±6.6 vs. 24.1 ±3.8). Benefits of breakfast and choice of foods will have a major impact in counteracting obesity. There should be an emphasis in college health classes on educating students on the importance of breakfast with attention to planning low fat, fiber-rich meals which also include fruits and dairy products.
Keywords: breakfast, body mass index, health, nutrition, food
Topic(s):Exercise Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 60-26
Location: OP Lobby and Atrium
Time: 4:15