Obesity-Related Dietary Patterns and Health Status of Diabetes among At-Risk Latino College Students

J Hispanic High Educ. 2017 Oct;16(4):291-313. doi: 10.1177/1538192716653504. Epub 2016 Jun 9.

Abstract

This study examined within-group differences in obesity-related dietary behaviors and the health status of 156 Latino students at-risk for diabetes due to family history. Approximately 58% of students were overweight/obese, with female students reporting a greater risk for diabetes. Consumption of meats, fried potatoes, breads, and tortillas was associated with higher BMI and diabetes risk indices. Differences in dietary behaviors were found based on students' college profile and sociodemographic characteristics. Implications for university-related intervention health initiatives are discussed.

Keywords: Latino college students; diabetes; dietary patterns; health status.