Folate/folic acid knowledge, intake, and self-efficacy of college-aged women: impact of text messaging and availability of a folic acid-containing supplement.
To evaluate the impact of educational text messages (TMs) on folate/folic acid knowledge and consumption among college-aged women, and to evaluate the impact of providing folic acid supplements on folate/folic acid intake among college-aged women.



A total of 162 women (18-24 years) recruited from a university.



The protocol included 3 study visits and a 6-week intervention for 4 groups: control; TM only; supplement only; and TM+supplement. Supplement groups received folic acid-containing supplements. TM groups received 18 folate-related TMs. Participants completed knowledge quizzes, supplement intake questions, a self-efficacy scale, and dietary recalls.



Despite receiving the same folic acid education, intake of folic acid and total folate was greater in the supplement groups compared with the non-supplement groups at mid- and post-study. TMs had no impact on any study measure.



Provision of a folic acid-containing supplement enhanced short-term folic acid intake, supporting the provision of supplements to this population group.
a Food Science and Human Nutrition Department , University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA.
Gail C
GC
Rampersaud
a Food Science and Human Nutrition Department , University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA.
Andrew
A
Sokolow
a Food Science and Human Nutrition Department , University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA.
Abigail
A
Gruspe
a Food Science and Human Nutrition Department , University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA.
James C
JC
Colee
a Food Science and Human Nutrition Department , University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA.
Gail P A
GP
Kauwell
D000293:Adolescent; D004032:Diet; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D005260:Female; D005492:Folic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D009749:Nutrition Surveys; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods; D020377:Self Efficacy; D013334:Students; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D060145:Text Messaging; D014495:Universities; D055815:Young Adult
D005492:Folic Acid
Folate; folic acid; nutrition education; supplement; text message