Analyzing Eating Choices, Headaches, and Stress Levels

Abstract

College students are a group of individuals especially prone to stress, tend to have poor eating habits, and most commonly report the head as a site of chronic pain. The perception of stress is one of the best predictors for headaches for college students; stress can influence appetite. This study aims to determine the eating styles, headache frequency, and stress levels among UC Irvine college students, explore any associations between these factors, and provide awareness of the possible role diet plays in the frequency and intensity of headache and stress for college students. This study utilizes an online survey, collecting a maximum of 1000 survey responses from college student participants. It is hypothesized that students who practice unhealthy eating choices will experience one or both of the following: high levels of stress and more headaches. This research will bring new information to the college community regarding a healthy and productive lifestyle which can result in increased student attendance, stronger academic performance, and heightened student motivation.