An Evaluation of the Relationship Between Physical Activity, Cooking, Dietary Behavior and Wellness Indicators in College Students: GetFRUVED Study

Abstract

Bone health is a significant issue for children to encourage healthy physical development. The objective of this research was to analyze the relationship between bone density and daily habits to explore effective strategies for promoting bone health in children. Study Design, Setting, and Participants: Participants were 157 junior high school students living in Yamagata, Japan. Each student's bone density was measured, and they answered a questionnaire in Home Economics class at school. Outcome Measures and Analysis: The calcaneus density was measured using an ultrasound technology system (AOS-100SA, Hitachi, Japan). The Osteo Sono-assessment Index (OSI) was used as an index of bone density. Frequency of eating calcium rich foods such as milk products and small soft-boned fish was assessed by a questionnaire, and the results of which were summarized with a total diet score. The students were divided into three (high/ middle/low) groups according to their total diet scores. The students were also divided into two groups (high/ low) according to the frequency of their physical activity. Two-way ANOVA tested for differences in mean OSI across gender and groups. Results: The high diet score group showed significantly (p¼0.04) higher OSI than the other two groups in both genders. The high physical activity group had marginally (p¼0.09) higher OSI than the low physical activity group in both genders. Conclusions and Implications: Nutrition educators need to help students achieve a calcium rich diet, and daily physical activity should be also recommended to encourage bone health in teenagers.