Reducing childhood obesity through nutrition component of a health promoting school initiative

Objective. To present the results of the nutritional component of a Health Promoting School (HPS) project, on the nutritional status of children in an elementary school. Materials and methods. An HPS intervention was designed using children's narrative and participatory action research methodology. Body mass index was utilized to assess nutritional status. Results. In school children the prevalence of excess weight (overweight plus obesity) decreased significantly (p<0.001) after the intervention. Conclusions. In order to develop a successful solution to the problem of excess weight, it is essential to involve those affected.