New Study Unveils Why Freshmen Gain the ‘Freshman 15’

As incoming college students receive advice on navigating campus life, one piece frequently stands out: beware of the “freshman 15.” This phenomenon, where first-year students gain weight, is so widespread it has become a fixture in college folklore. But what exactly drives this trend?

A new study from George Mason University, published in the journal mHealth, seeks to provide clarity. The interdisciplinary research, spearheaded by Y. Alicia Hong, a professor in the Department of Health Administration and Policy, highlights the social and environmental factors that lead to increased food intake among college students, contributing to the notorious weight gain.

“Social and environmental factors are key determinants of eating behavior. College students are affected by the eating environment, especially where they eat and whom they eat with. Our research found that they consume more calories when eating in groups or formal dining settings,” Hong said in a news release. 

Over four weeks, students used a mobile app to record their daily eating habits, environments and mood and stress levels. The data indicated that participants tended to eat more in social settings, such as dining halls or restaurants, and less when alone or at home.

Interestingly, the study also uncovered that students often misjudge their food consumption. The app-logged caloric intake significantly differed from their self-perceived consumption. Additionally, gender and emotional state were identified as contributing factors to these eating behaviors.

“College students’ eating behaviors are complex, with individual, interpersonal, and environmental factors interacting to influence dietary intake. This research underscores the importance of context in dietary intervention and incorporating digital tools for dietary assessment,” added Hong. 

Source: George Mason University