J Am Coll Health. 2024 Dec 3:1-12. doi: 10.1080/07448481.2024.2404945. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Objective: Examine associations between ultra-processed food (UPF) intake and diet quality (DQ) in college students. Participants: Analysis included 695 participants ages 18-39 years. Methods: Dietary data were collected using the online Diet History Questionnaires II and III. The Healthy Eating Index 2020 (HEI-2020) adult score assessed DQ. NOVA classification was used to identify UPFs. Multivariable linear regression was used to examine associations between %EI from UPF and HEI-2020 total and component scores, controlling for gender, race, smoking, campus meal plan, and EI. Results: Mean age was 19.2 years. In fully adjusted models a statistically significant inverse association was found between %EI from UPF and HEI-2020 total scores (F = 37.81, p < 0.001, R2=0.26), all HEI adequacy scores except whole grains (not significant) and dairy (weak positive association), and for saturated fat, refined grains, and sodium scores. Conclusions: Addressing UPF intake in young adult college students could be a potential strategy to improve DQ.
PMID:39625752 | DOI:10.1080/07448481.2024.2404945
