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Nutrition education in schools: experiences and challenges

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition volume 57, pages S82–S85 (2003)Cite this article

Abstract

Health promotion from the early stages in life by fostering healthy eating practices and regular physical activity has the potential for a major impact on health and well-being during childhood and later stages in life.

School-based nutrition education should consider the needs and interests of students, teachers and the school. Educational strategies include efforts to increase health awareness, communication and skill building.

Previous literature reviews identified educational strategies directly relevant to a behavioural focus and theory-driven strategies among the elements conducive to successful programmes. Other features that contribute to gain effectiveness are the provision of adequate time and intensity for the intervention, involvement of families, particularly for younger children, and incorporation of self-assessment and feedback in interventions for older children. School meals provide a valuable opportunity for nutrition education. The emphasis on environmental and behavioural factors in successful school-based physical activity and nutrition interventions highlights the importance of involving parents and other community members.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Public Health, Community Nutrition Unit, Bilbao, Spain

    C Pérez-Rodrigo & J Aranceta

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  1. C Pérez-Rodrigo
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  2. J Aranceta
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Contributions

Guarantor: C Pérez-Rodrigo.

Contributors: CP-R and JA have both contributed to the literature review, conceptualize paper structure and further development.

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Correspondence to C Pérez-Rodrigo.

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Pérez-Rodrigo, C., Aranceta, J. Nutrition education in schools: experiences and challenges. Eur J Clin Nutr 57 (Suppl 1), S82–S85 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.ejcn.1601824

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