Evaluating Nutrition and Physical Activity Interventions in College Students: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the methodological quality of multidimensional lifestyle interventions among university students to improve nutrition and physical activity related outcomes. A critical evaluation of targeted interventions specifically for physical activity and nutrition habits in college populations was conducted for the efficacy in multifaceted behavior change. Out of the fourteen assessed trials, only five received a rating of high quality. Common issues noted included selection bias, randomization issues, loss to follow-up or attrition, and a lack of maintenance for behavior outcomes. This suggests that further research is needed to establish the longevity of behavior change related to physical activity and dietary habits among university students. Increasing self-efficacy among this cohort has the potential to contribute to management and prevention of chronic disease in late adulthood. There is a limited amount of literature exploring the long-term effects (>12 month follow-up) of a multidimensional approach for nutrition and physical activity interventions for college students. Future research efforts must be directed toward including multiple health behaviors to encompass health and wellness and establish long-term adherence to behavior change in college students.