Nutrition is an essential component to living a healthy life, but for some, especially college students, it can prove to be a challenge. Many don’t get all of what they need on a regular basis.

According to a 2011 study from Oregon State University surveying the eating patterns of 582 college students, many college students did not regularly get the necessary food servings for a healthy diet.

Nutrient deficiencies varied between sex and age, but a common theme was that many do not get what they need and exhibit unhealthy eating habits ranging from skipping breakfast to eating to much junk food.

For example, the study showed that men who were surveyed consumed more fat content while women needed more fiber.

When asked about their own personal emphasis on nutrient intake through healthy eating, some Iowa State University students felt it was an important consideration in their diet.

For others it either wasn’t a priority or they were content with getting what they could where they knew they could get it without stressing over the details. 

 Nathan Pomykala said that eating his fruits and vegetables were important, but it was fine if he went without.

“I generally try to eat healthy. If it’s there, I’ll eat it, but I’m not going to go search for it. I’d say sometimes it’s just not an option. Some days I try, some days I ignore it.”

For others, it’s not even on their radar. Kelsey Daniels admitted that it wasn’t something about which she personally cared.

“I don’t think about it at all. I don’t really care about nutrition at the moment I guess,” said Daniels.

Speculating on why people might not give it much consideration, Daniels said, “It’s more of a natural need and people don’t really think about it. We’re hungry so we don’t really care about what we’re eating so long as we’re fed.” 

Lisa Nolting, Iowa State’s registered dietitian, stated why it is so important to maintain a healthy diet.

“You need a variety of foods to fuel your body. Basically, your macro nutrients would be proteins, carbohydrates, fats and also fiber.”

Nolting addressed why she believed that many people struggled with maintaining healthy eating habits and getting the kinds of food that they need, stating that there were a wide variety of factors at play.

“I think people struggle to find the right balance in their lives between work, school and depending on what stage of life they’re in, their relationships and their families,” said Nolting.

“Sometimes it’s hard to plan meals and snacks to meet their dietary needs due to time constraints and also maybe not having the right knowledge and skill set.”

Nolting recommended that students utilize My Plate provided by the United States Department of Agriculture which, among other things, outlines the appropriate meal proportions of the major food groups, emphasizing the importance of having a healthy balance of vegetables, fruit, grains, dairy and protein.