Snacking and its contribution to food and nutrient intake of college students
Khan, M.A.; Lipke, L.K.
Journal of the American Dietetic Association 81(5): 583-587
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-8223 PMID: 7130573 Document Number: 188378
A study was conducted to compare nutrient intakes from meals and snacks selected by 111 nutrition and 139 non-nutrition college majors using a designed questionnaire to collect 24-hour recall data. The data were analyzed to determine the frequency of meals and snacks, the food and beverage types selected, and the daily calorie and nutrient intakes actually obtained. Breakfast was skipped most often, and most students snacked after supper. Non-nutrition m ajors ate more frequently than nutrition majors, and females ate more often than males. Peak snacking hours were midway between regular meals with most students consuming beverages (especially, carbonated) as snacks. Women's iron intakes and male nutrition major's vitamin A intakes were below the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA), but all groups met or exceeded the RDA of most other nutrients. Snacks contibuted 3.5-34.8% opf the RDA for different nutrients. Snacks contributed towards satisfying the RDA needs for desired energy level for all students, iron and calcium for women, and for vitamin A and thiamin for male nutrition majors. (wz)