Nutrition Education Intervention Increases Dietary Knowledge and Fruit/Vegetable Consumption Among 2nd Grade Students

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of nutrition education intervention on nutrition related knowledge and dietary eating habits of a 2nd grade class. The design included mixed methods including a quasi-experimental study. Data collection includes a pre and post test and FFQ, MyPlate, Eatrightpro educational handouts. The study took place in the Town of Webb Union Free School District, Old Forge, NY from 2021-2022 and included 15 2nd grade students ages 11-13 years old enrolled in the study and received a 6-week nutrition education intervention. A 6-week nutrition education intervention was utilized with lessons covering MyPlate, Food Groups, fruits and vegetables and related nutrition activities. SPSS and Excel were used for data analysis. A paired t-test was performed to analyze pre and post test results and a P value of <0.05 was used to determine statistical significance Post test scores were significantly higher than pre-test scores. The nutrition related intervention significantly increased nutrition related knowledge and healthy eating habits of the 2nd grade. The short 6-week nutrition education intervention was found to be effective in increasing nutrition related knowledge in 2nd grade students in addition to promoting healthy dietary eating habits.