Objectives: This cross-sectional study assessed the correlation between college students’ perceived stress (PS) and healthy lifestyle factors (HLFs). Methods: Data were collected from 1,396 undergraduates enrolled in an introductory nutrition course. PS and five HLFs (physically active, healthy diet, non-smoker, non-binge drinker, healthy BMI) were measured. Results: The mean PS score was 15.0 ± 0.2 (maximum, 40) and the mean number of HLFs reported was 2.9 ± 0.03. Females were more likely to report 4-5 HLFs than males (31% vs. 20%). A significant inverse correlation between PS and HLFs was demonstrated among females (p < .01). Conclusions: Health promotion interventions that support healthy food choices, physical activity and low-risk substance use may reduce perceived stress in the college population.
