The influence of eating habits on the academic performance of university students

OBJECTIVE: To explore the correlation between eating habits of university students and academic achievement. PARTICIPANTS: 577 undergraduate students at a university in the United States. METHODS: Students were invited to participate in an anonymous online survey that asked questions concerning health-related behaviors; participants were asked to report their current grade point average (GPA). Statistical analyses were performed using the JMP software program; a standard least squares regression was used to test whether self-reported current GPA was related to different types and rates of weekly food and drink consumption. RESULTS: Self-reported GPA did not change along with weekly rates of milk, vegetables, green salad, fruit juice, or fresh fruit consumption. Breakfast consumption had a positive effect on self-reported GPA, while fast food consumption had a negative effect. CONCLUSION: Healthy eating habits have a positive effect on students' academic performance. However, other factors, such as sleep habits, may be more important.