Students receive some "Food for Thought"

By Lucy Baugh

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Information and tips on healthy eating and portion control were the order of the day Tuesday at the University of Central Florida's health and wellness center, when licensed nutritionist and resident UCF dietician Meghan Murphy Van Camp gave a presentation entitled "Exploring portion sizes". 

Van Camp offered interested students some useful information on just how much portion control can help maintain a healthy body weight. "Many people are unaware of the correct portion sizes for many foods, and it really helps to get the right information in order to make informed decisions" said Van Camp. 

A study conducted October 2007 at the University of New Hampshire found that obesity, high blood pressure and inactivity are a growing problem in college students between the ages of 18 and 24. The study, which involved collecting information from more than 800 students on their lifestyle and dietary habits, concluded that convenience food consumption and lack of exercise were contributing factors.

"I think maintaining a healthy lifestyle while in college can be simplified if students take the time to educate themselves by taking advantage of the many resources available to them" Van Camp later explained. 

The 60 minute presentation showed students the suitable portion sizes for everyday foods such as chicken, with the correct portion being around four ounces. Students could also sample a variety of healthy snacks such as apple slices with natural peanut butter, and low fat cottage cheese. 

"After seeing these foods, I realize how huge restaurant portions really are. I'll definitely be more careful when i eat out." said Anna Bryant, a psychology major at the university. 

Van Camp also spoke about the "Shape U" program that she teaches and administers within UCF. The five week program aims to help students with lifestyle, nutrition and self awareness, with an ultimate goal of healthy weight maintenance. 

"I definitely gained a few pounds when I started college" said Jaime Wyatt, a hospitality management major now in her junior year. "I tried out the Shape U program and it worked pretty well for me, I know more about what it takes to maintain a healthy lifestyle and I try to help my friends with that too."

The UCF health and wellness center frequently provides information sessions with Van Camp, as well as a range of other programs. Information can be found at www.hs.sdes.ucf.edu.