Research Article: Effectiveness of School-Based Interventions in Europe for Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors in Children
Abstract:
The objective of this narrative review was to summarize existing literature on the effectiveness of school-based interventions, implemented in Europe, under the aim of promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors in children (6–10 years old). A search of PubMed, Scopus, EFSA and Google Scholar databases was performed for studies published from January 2016 to June 2022. Specific search terms and exclusion criteria were used. Based on the results, diet and physical activity interventions had favorable effects on a series of health outcomes, including anthropometric parameters, biomarkers, eating behavior and self-efficacy. Diet-only interventions had a positive impact specifically on eating habits, mostly on water consumption. Most successful interventions lasted for 1 school year, and they were characterized by parental involvement and teachers’ training.
Introduction:
Childhood is one of the critical periods for good health and development in human life. During childhood, physiological needs for nutrients increase and the adoption and maintenance of high-quality eating habits is particularly important [1]. A healthful diet during childhood promotes growth and cognitive development of children and may contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases in later life [2,3]. Similarly, regular physical activity is associated with physiological and mental health benefits, including a…
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