Influence of cooking skills and nutritional training on dietary choices of incoming chiropractic students

Abstract

Objective We aimed to identify chiropractic students' cooking skills, perceptions of healthy eating, and influence of prior nutrition training on dietary intake. Methods Two cohorts of incoming graduate students were surveyed to assess nutritional training prior to matriculation, perceptions of healthy eating behaviors, cooking skills, current dietary intake, and barriers to healthy eating. Using independent t tests, correlations, and descriptive statistics, data from the cohorts were assessed. Results The response rate was 88.7% (n = 178). Nutritional training significantly increased perception of nutritional knowledge and confidence in giving nutrition advice. Completion of at least 1 college nutrition course was associated with nearly double students' weekly fatty fish intake. Males were more likely to eat animal protein, and females preferred desserts. Modeling a healthy diet for future patients was rated as being important, yet most students consumed diets consistent with the typical American diet. The leading barriers to healthy eating included lack of time and money. Conclusion Similar to students in other healthcare professions, incoming chiropractic students wish to model healthy behaviors but fail to apply their knowledge and attitudes to their own dietary intakes due to common barriers.