Degree Name

MS (Master of Science)

Program

Clinical Nutrition

Date of Award

5-2013

Committee Chair or Co-Chairs

Michelle Lee

Committee Members

Eileen Cress, Elizabeth Lowe

Abstract

Rates of adult obesity in the United States continue to rise, especially among the college-age population who typically practice poor dietary choices, contributing to weight gain. College-age students experience a transitional phase called ‘emerging adulthood’ where they learn autonomy in many areas that influence long-term health status. The purpose of the online health promotion program BUCS: Live Well was to promote self-efficacy in ability to incorporate positive dietary changes, assess incidences of positive dietary habits after completing the program, and determine if weight status, residence, and health perceptions influence dietary behaviors. BUCS: Live Well was successful in assessing current dietary intake, facilitating positive dietary changes, and improving self-efficacy about incorporating positive dietary changes, although it did not promote weight loss. Online health promotion programs for college students are effective in initiating lifestyle modification and need to be available in hopes of reducing the obesity rate in this population.

Document Type

Thesis - unrestricted

Copyright

Copyright by the authors.

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