‘Freshman 15’ dispute

[projekktor id=’20707′]

There is a great deal of dispute over whether college and university students really pack on the pounds during their first year, and a Brock University study is hoping to discover the truth behind the saying. They are also hoping to discover some of the factors that affect first year weight gain and other changes to the body.

The Brock “transition study” is collecting data from first year students, including an extensive survey of eating habits, an analysis of body composition and a sample of stress levels. At the end of the year, they will readminister the tests and analyze how different changes like anxiety, diet and exercise affect students’ bodies and by how much.

The ultimate goal is to help first years start their adult life on the right foot. The study will also determine the true number behind the Freshman 15. Most current research suggests 15 pounds is a major over estimate. To gain that amount of weight during a school year, students would have to eat or drink 1750 extra calories each week.