This study examines the association between frequency of participating in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs and children’s dietary intakes. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Dietary Screener Questionnaire was used to measure dietary intake of fruit and vegetables, fiber, whole grains, dairy, calcium, total added sugar, sugar-sweetened beverages, and energy-dense foods. The study found children who ate school breakfast every day, compared with children who ate school breakfast 0-4 days per week, reported consuming more fruits and vegetables, dietary fiber, whole grains, dairy, and calcium. Children who ate school lunch every day, compared to those who ate less frequently, consumed more dairy and calcium. Overall, eating school breakfast and lunch every day was found to be associated with modestly higher dietary intakes.
Eating School Meals Daily Is Associated with Healthier Dietary Intakes: The Healthy Communities Study
Published: March 2018
ID #: 73272
Journal: J Acad Nutr Diet
Authors: Au LE, Gurzo K, Gosliner W, Webb KL, Crawford PB, Ritchie LD
State: National
Age Groups: Elementary-age children (grades K to 5), Young adolescents (grades 6 to 8), Adolescents (grades 9 to 12)
Race/Ethnicity: Multi-racial/ethnic
Resource Type: Journal Article
Focus Area: School & After School
Keywords: Fruits and vegetables, School meal programs
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