Effectiveness of a Behavior-and Age-Specific Nutrition Education Intervention to Promote Nutrition Knowledge and Preference for Fruits and Vegetables among Elementary School Children. Issue 3 (4th May 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Saha, Sanjoy; Murimi, Mary; Oldewage-Theron, Wilna
• Is Part Of: American journal of health education. Volume 54:Issue 3(2023)
• Page Start: 198
• Page End: 208
• Publication Date: 2023-05-04
• Subjects: Health education -- United States -- Periodicals; School hygiene -- Study and teaching -- United States -- Periodicals; Health Education -- Periodicals; School Health Services -- Periodicals; 371
• DOI: 10.1080/19325037.2023.2186982
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1932-5037

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: Lack of nutrition knowledge, low preference for fruits and vegetables (F&V), and underdeveloped taste are recognized as modifiable influencers of children's F&V intake. Purpose: To assess the effectiveness of a behavior-and age-specific nutrition education intervention to improve nutrition knowledge and preference for F&V among elementary school children. Methods: In a quasi-experimental pre-and posttest assessment designed study, a six-week nutrition education intervention (including class-based nutrition education, hands-on activities, cooking demonstrations, and tasting) was implemented at four elementary schools. Nutrition knowledge and preference for F&V were evaluated at baseline and after the intervention. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was carried out to examine the differences between baseline and post-assessment. Results: A total of 115 children (3rd- 5th grade) completed both baseline and post-assessment. After the intervention, participants showed a significant improvement in nutrition knowledge (mean [± sd] change score: 7.6 ± 3.7, P < .001). A significant improvement in F&V preference ( P s < .001) was found among the participants after the intervention. Discussion: An age-and behavior-focused nutrition education intervention can improve children's nutrition knowledge and F&V preference. Translation to Health Education Practice: This nutrition education curriculum can be implemented for the child population (age-specific groups) by adapting cultural priorities in nutrition lessons and cooking recipes. A AJHE Self-Study quiz is online for this article via the SHAPE America Online Institute (SAOI) http://portal.shapeamerica.org/trn-Webinars