India is witnessing a surge in childhood obesity, diabetes, and heart disease risks. A recent study led by researchers from the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh highlights the effectiveness of school-based behavioral interventions in curbing the intake of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) high in salt and sugar among teenagers. These interventions can lead to a significant reduction of over 1,000 calories per day from junk food.
Consumption of UPFs, which include fast foods and sugary beverages, is a key contributor to various health issues like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and cancers in adolescents. The study, published in BMJ Global Health, emphasizes the impact of school-based behavioral programs in tackling the consumption of UPFs among Indian teenagers, filling a crucial gap in public health research in low- and middle-income countries.
The research team implemented a structured nutrition and behavior-change program in 12 public schools in Chandigarh, focusing on Grade 8 students and their parents. Adolescents attended around 11 sessions over six months, while parents received a single educational session to raise awareness about reducing UPF consumption and promoting healthier dietary habits. Data on dietary intake were collected at the beginning and end of the study through two non-consecutive 24-hour dietary recalls.
Participants who engaged in the program showed a significant decrease of more than 1,000 calories per day from UPFs, such as packaged snacks, sugary drinks, and fast food. Moreover, the intake of other processed foods decreased by approximately 270 calories per day, indicating a shift towards healthier eating habits. However, the study revealed that while junk food consumption decreased, there was no substantial increase in the intake of fruits or home-cooked meals, suggesting that eliminating unhealthy foods is easier than fostering healthy eating behaviors.
Despite involving families in the intervention, there was minimal change observed in parents’ eating patterns, underscoring the influential role of schools in shaping teenage dietary choices. The findings propose that schools have the potential to play a crucial role in preventing future lifestyle diseases by employing cost-effective educational and behavioral strategies.
