154250 Changes in students' nutrition behaviors lead to changes in school food policy

Monday, November 5, 2007

Janine T. Baer, PhD, RD, RN , Health and Sport Science, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH
C. Jayne Brahler, PhD , Health and Sport Science, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH
PURPOSE: To share the results of pilot program data evaluating nutrition behaviors of 9th-12th grade students participating in a PEP grant supported school based walking program. The purpose of the pilot program was to collect baseline data, which ultimately will be used to measure the impact of expected behavior, environmental, physiological and biochemical changes on 9th-12th grade students. METHODS: A convenience sample of 120 rural high school students participating in a school based walking program participated in a baseline and 18wk nutrition and physical activity assessment which included survey data and physiological and biochemical measurements to assess risk of chronic disease(s). Students participated in daily exercise and weekly nutrition education sessions as part of the 5d/wk, 18 wk program. FINDINGS: Survey and nutrition data reported significant change in student's food attitudes and behaviors by choosing and requesting healthier food items in vending machines, cafeteria and at home. Students effectively influenced policy related to point of purchase at school. Participation in nutrition education and exercise was associated with improved eating behaviors at home. Consumption of soda significantly decreased. Peer relationships encouraged compliance with improved nutrition behaviors and promotion of change in food policy at school.

Learning Objectives:
Identify nutrition assessment tools preferred by high school students to obtain and track nutrient intake. List three ways in which student can effectively participate in affecting food policy at school. List three ways by which students can effectively partipate in influencing food choices at home. Identify at least three strategies to encourage compliance with food behavior changes.

Keywords: Nutrition, Health Behavior

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No
Any institutionally-contracted trials related to this submission?

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

See more of: Poster Session V: Nutrition in Schools (Jointly-organized with the Food and Nutrition & School Health Education and Services Sections)
See more of: Food and Nutrition