Abstract TH914: Food insecurity is related to lower nutrient intake in college students: Findings from the FRESH Study

Abstract

Background: Food insecurity affects up to 40% of U.S. college students and may negatively impact nutrient intake critical for cardiovascular and metabolic health (CVMH). Hypothesis: Food insecurity (which includes both low and very low food security) is associated with lower nutrient intake among 2 nd -year college students. Methods: The Food, Rest, Exercise, and Student Health (FRESH) study is a 2-year longitudinal observational study of 349 second-year students (with no major health issues) at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Baseline data include last-30-day food security status, measured height and weight, and three 24-hour dietary recalls (using ASA-24) assessing macro- and micro-nutrient intake. Statistical Analysis: Multivariable linear regression models estimated relationships between food security status and average daily nutrient intake of kcals, carbohydrates (g), fats (g), protein (g), fiber (g), Fe (g), Mg (g), C (g), and D(g). Adjusted models controlled for sex, BMI, race and ethnicity. Results: Participants averaged 19.5±2.8 years old, were 69% female, and 20% reported food insecurity. In unadjusted models, food insecurity was related to lower daily average intakes of kcals (β= -.14, p=0.01), protein (β= -.17, p=0.003), carbohydrates (β= -.13, p=0.02), total fat (β= -.12, p=0.04), polyunsaturated fat (β= -.14, p<0.05), fiber (β= -.16, p=0.004), Mg (β= -.16, p=0.01), vitamin C (β= -.13, p=0.03), and iron (β= -.14, p=0.01). Adjusted models showed that food insecurity was related to lower intakes of protein (β= -.11, p=0.04), fiber (β= -.14, p=0.01), Mg (β= -.12, p=0.03), and vitamin C (β= -.12, p=0.03). There was a trend in relationship with lower intake of polyunsaturated fats (β= -.10, p=0.07). Conclusion: Food insecurity was related to lower intake of protein, fiber, Mg and vitamin C among FRESH participants. Findings suggest that food insecurity may contribute to poor nutrient intake among college students, potentially impacting CVMH via mechanisms involving oxidative stress, body repair function, and weight management. Federal food assistance could benefit students who experience food insecurity.