Nutrition Education Works: Increasing Nutrition Literacy and Promoting Healthy Eating in Israeli Adolescents

Abstract

Currently, nutrition is not taught in most Israeli schools. However, 9th-grade Biology teachers can include 4 hours of nutrition topics. This study evaluated changes in nutrition literacy and eating behaviors following the addition of 20 hours of nutrition education to the current science curriculum. Junior high school students (n=181), aged 14-15 years, 50% males, participated in a controlled prospective study at intervention schools (n=131) or a control school (n=50). Students completed semi-structured questionnaires before and after the program and at 2 month follow-up. Activities were carried out in a classroom setting and were based on social cognitive theory, emphasizing self-efficacy. Frontal lectures, class discussions, games and experiential activities including food preparation were used to present a wide range of nutritional topics. Data was analyzed using student’s t-test (control vs experimental) and paired t-tests for pre-post evaluation in the intervention group. Baseline data was similar for control and intervention groups. Students participating in the expanded program improved their ability to correctly answer nutrition knowledge questions from 70% to 86% (P≤0.05). Significantly greater consumption of fruits and vegetables (∼3 servings daily to ∼5 servings), increased use of food labels and overall better food choices were also reported. Almost all students (91%) reported making at least one dietary change. No significant changes were observed in controls. This study supports the efficacy of school-based nutritional programs for improving literacy and promoting healthy eating in adolescents. It is recommended that the Israel Ministry of Education expand nutrition education in this age group.