Energy balance of nutrition and activity in a group of nursing students

Abstract

This descriptive study presents a profile of energy balance, nutrition, and activity in a group of baccalaureate nursing students (N=21). Self-reported, consecutive, three-day food and physical activity records as well as a background questionnaire served as the instruments for data collection. Findings revealed that energy intakes were adequate to meet recommended nutrient intakes for all nutrients except carbohydrate, but insufficient to meet their levels of energy expenditure. Student involvement in a range of activities that required substantial energy expenditure, coupled with weight-loss dieting by several students appear to explain this observed energy imbalance. Increased carbohydrate intake and decreased fat intake would seem to be recommended nutritional modifications warranted for this group of nursing students.