Evolution of the School Breakfast Program in Northwest Mexico Evaluated in the Period 1996 to 2018 (P16-034-19)

Abstract

Objectives To analyze the evolution of the school breakfast program (SBP) in Sonora, according to the challenges presented during the period 1996–2018. Methods This is an anthology of what has been the SBP in Sonora for twenty-two years. The results of the program (1996–2018) were analyzed and discussed, according to the different stages through which it has been developed, as well as the evaluations that constituted the starting point for the subsequent stages; published in four articles, seven master's theses and technical reports delivered to the National System for Integral Family Development (DIF) -Sonora by researchers from the Research Center for Food and Development (CIAD, A.C.) Results Follow-up studies of the SBP in Sonora included dietary evaluations and design of school breakfast menus (SB), impact on micronutrient deficiencies and the presence of overweight and obesity. The evidence showed that SB constitutes a complementary contribution of nutrients in the diet of the participants; it also did not introduce risk factors for children's health such as excessive amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol. The results of the studies on the nutritional status of children include the measurement of cognitive development, the adequacy of the diet, as well as the evaluation of anthropometric indicators, biochemical micronutrient status and cardiovascular risk for overweight and obesity, finally the inclusion of nutritional education through the implementation of programs to promote water consumption, practice of physical activity and healthy eating. The monitoring and evaluation of the SBP has allowed changes consistent with the needs of children and does not constitute a risk for the development of childhood obesity. In addition, for the benefits presented in the program such as the implementation process, sustainability, institutionalization, participation of parents and the school community and good adherence to the program has been managed to evaluate nutritional education in school and home contexts to achieve sustainable changes in dietary practices and physical activity. Conclusions The process of monitoring the program allows an adequate organizational environment for the implementation of a nutritional education program leading to the prevention of childhood obesity. The next challenge is to ensure the institutionalization of nutritional education within the SBP in Sonora. Funding Sources Sistema Integral para el Desarrollo de la Familia, DIF Sonora.