Increasing levels of obesity among American youth, and the associated problems that may result during adult life, mandate the need for creative nutrition education techniques. This is especially important for college students and future educators enrolled in nutrition courses in small rural communities. This presentation will highlight a variety of instructional methods that were utilized to facilitate learning, and help students to personalize nutrition information. Material covered included the role and function of nutrients, the relationship between nutrition and disease or a healthy lifestyle, analysis of nutrition information, and application of nutritional tools. Additionally,these college students were involved with surveys of their dietary patterns and self-directed nutritional assessments. Results include a review of student's use or overuse of selected nutrients, exercise and weight control, and other nutritional behaviors. Implications of these findings will be discussed in relation to health promotion for the new millennium. Of particular significance is the fact that many of these students may eventually become teachers and role models for younger children.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to review dietary patterns and the nutritional status of college students in a small rural community; and discuss creative nutrition education techniques
Keywords: Nutrition, Education
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.