Kids learn about healthy lifestyle in school-based garden program

Children learned to grow vegetables and the value of a healthy lifestyle in a school-based program tailored for their low-income, desert community, according to a study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2015.

The American Heart Association teamed up with Johns Hopkins University to implement the Teaching Gardens program among 177 4th and 5th grade students at two elementary schools in Clark County, Nevada. Not only did the children learn about the value of healthy nutrition and physical activity but the program also included parent workshops and a farmer’s market.

At the programs end, the children:

• were more aware of and likely to eat the daily recommended amount of fruit and vegetables;
• could easily identify at least three healthy snacks; and
• were knowledgeable about daily recommended screen time and more likely to participate in physical activity.

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Note: Actual presentation is 2 p.m. ET, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2015.

Additional Resources:

• Life is Why Family Health Challenge
• How to get Energized without an Energy Drink
• For more news from the AHA’s Scientific Sessions 2015 follow us on Twitter @HeartNews #AHA15.

Statements and conclusions of study authors that are presented at American Heart Association scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect association policy or position. The association makes no representation or warranty as to their accuracy or reliability. The association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific association programs and events. The association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and device corporations are available at http://www.heart.org/corporatefunding.

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