Nutrition education improves behaviors without accompanying improvements in dietary guideline recognition among rural 4th and 5th graders (273.7)

Abstract

Dietary guidelines are designed to reduce the burden of obesity and related health problems. Our aim was to measure change in knowledge and behavior related to USDA dietary guidelines following nutrition education of rural, low‐income, 4th and 5th graders. Eight Apache County, AZ classrooms volunteered to participate; each received three, 45‐minute, education sessions related to USDA recommendations over 2‐3 weeks (N=139 pre, 121 post). Anonymous self‐report behavior and knowledge questionnaires were administered to the children prior to and following the class series. Descriptive statistics were computed for student demographics and consumption of fruits, vegetables, grains, and milk on the prior day. Paired t‐tests were used to evaluate change in weighted classroom averages. Seventy‐six percent were 4th graders, 52% male. Identification of USDA‐recommended milk type increased by 12% (p<0.0001), while knowledge of other recommendations did not improve. Reported consumption of lower fat milk, whole grains, vegetables, and fruit significantly increased (p蠄0.01). The percent of students active during morning break and lunchtime significantly increased (p<0.02). Minutes of afterschool physical activity did not change, but minutes of sedentary time decreased (p=0.01). These data suggest that acute changes in target behaviors are possible in this age group, despite the absence of increased knowledge.Grant Funding Source: USDA HI050073, NIH P30CA023074