Systematic review of intervention programmes to promote healthy physical activity and nutrition habits in Spanish school children

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health problems of the 21st century, because children are growing up in an environment where sport is not encouraged. This is due to changes in dietary patterns and an increase in sedentary lifestyles. Objective. Describe and analyze the main intervention programs, based on the promotion of healthy habits (Nutrition and Physical Activity) in the child population and the main strategies used for their implementation in Spanish schools. Material and methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study based on a systematic review of the literature carried out in October 2022. The study population was pupils aged between 6 and 12 years old attending primary schools in Spain. Results. It has been identified that educational interventions on nutrition and/or physical activity carried out in schools are positive in improving eating habits and physical activity among schoolchildren. Discussion. In addition, by combining the topics of nutrition and physical activity, healthy habits are encouraged, with the aim of preventing obesity and sedentary lifestyles. In turn, by encouraging the participation of families in the intervention programmes, a positive result is obtained in the effectiveness of the interventions. Conclusions. Most of the intervention programmes analysed demonstrate their effectiveness in modifying eating habits, as well as increasing the level of physical activity, avoiding sedentary lifestyles among schoolchildren and, therefore, reducing the risk of obesity.