Abstract
Objective To perform a pilot study that evaluates the nutritional and dietary habits of primary school children in a socioeconomically disadvantaged area prior to and following a healthy eating intervention programme.
Design A quantitative study whereby the food intakes of 20 boys and 20 girls aged 8 to 9 years old were recorded for five days prior to, and for five days after the intervention. Discussions with the children to ascertain their attitudes towards healthy foods were carried out and parental support was encouraged.
Setting A primary school in a socioeconomically disadvantaged area in the city of Limerick, Republic of Ireland.
Method Food intake data was collected using food diaries and analysed using the computer package Diet 5 for Windows. Paired t-tests were performed to assess any significant changes in the dietary intakes.
Results Following intervention, there were significant increases in the consumption of energy (P<0.001), protein (P<0.001), fat (P<0.01), and calcium (P<0.0001). Whilst most of the nutrients were consumed in appropriate amounts, the percentage energy from fat was higher than recommendations, whilst iron intakes were below recommendations. Conclusion Although, the changes in food consumption were positive, future interventions should emphasise the need to monitor fat intakes, improve iron status and encourage discussion outside the classroom environment. Similar interventions based on this pilot study could also be used with respect to other areas of health promotion, for example, activity, anti-smoking and so on.
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