According to a new study published in the journal Pediatrics, policy can play a significant role in improving the health of our children. Researchers examined the weight statuses of students from schools in states with strict competitive food regulations in comparison to schools in states with more relaxed competitive food regulations. The results? Students that lived in higher-regulation states weighed less. Food for thought!
Last week I had the fantastic opportunity to meet up with a few folks doing great bike-centric projects. The Path Less Pedaled is a duo who have been touring since 2009, searching for interesting bike stories as they travel. Russ & Laura ride 20″ folding bikes made by the company Brompton. We met up in Bend for a fun conversation about our love of two-wheeled travel. I also shared a bit about the School Food Tour with them. Here’s our interview and the video recap of their time in Bend.
My other exciting meeting was with the producer of the bike documentary With My Own Two Wheels. This film is a fascinating look at how bikes change lives all around the globe. Although I missed the local showing I cannot wait to view this acclaimed production. Their team is producing a middle school curriculum to accompany the film and I am very excited about the many collaboration possibilities that we discussed.
What do wholesome meals and test scores have in common?
Quite a bit, according to public health research. One neat part about managing a blog is that I have access to every search engine query that directs a visitor to my site. I have noticed a remarkable number of Google searches on the topic of healthy eating and academic performance – an encouraging trend! Below, for interested folks, is a quick round-up of research and resources that should help to explicate the relationship between good food and a sharp mind. Enjoy!
Journal of American Public Health Association: Hollar, et al concluded that children who participated in an obesity prevention program that included healthy food “had significantly higher math scores”.
The American Dietetic Association: Rampersaud, et al. state, “Evidence suggests that breakfast consumption may improve cognitive function related to memory, test grades, and school attendance.”
Journal of School Health: Florence, et al. found “an association between diet quality and academic performance.”
Healthy Eating Research has a long list of additional resources.
What about physical activity and academics? According to Leadership for Healthy Communities, test scores increase along with amount of physical activity. Learn more here.