In recent years, schools have placed increasing emphasis on nutrition education as a means to promote healthier eating habits among students. While the intention behind these lessons is laudable, there is growing concern that they might inadvertently be doing more harm than good, impacting children’s eating habits and overall well-being.
Nutrition education in schools is primarily driven by state education standards, which often include concepts like cutting out certain foods, limiting calorie intake, and instilling a fear of weight gain. While these messages are well-intentioned, they can inadvertently convey principles that resemble those found in eating disorders.
Parents and guardians, especially those with children who have eating disorders, often find themselves in a dilemma when it comes to these nutrition units. They question whether it’s safe for any student to participate in these activities. Zoë Bisbing, an eating disorder therapist in New York City, aptly describes the situation as teachers unwittingly leading an expedition into a minefield.
One significant challenge lies in the gap between the nuanced, highly individual aspects of nutrition and where children are developmentally in terms of their understanding of food. Nutrition, although complex, is often taught in a manner that children, who tend to be concrete thinkers, find difficult to grasp.
Providing children with an abundance of nutrition details or categorizing foods can lead to unintended consequences. It can disconnect children from their natural body cues and their ability to listen to internal signals. Abstract concepts like “sometimes foods” can be particularly perplexing for children, leading to unwarranted fears or, conversely, rebellion against “healthy eating” guidance.
Teaching nutrition to tweens and teens is especially challenging. Research shows that a significant number of adolescents already experience body dissatisfaction. Following conventional “healthy eating” advice to lose weight during a period of rapid growth and development can be counterproductive.
The traditional picture of a “healthy” food may not apply universally to every child. Neurodivergent children, those from food-insecure households, and those whose cultural diets diverge from standard guidelines may find these lessons irrelevant or even detrimental. So, how can we address these concerns while still promoting healthy eating habits and nutrition education in schools?
One approach is to strive for neutrality when teaching nutrition facts and avoid labeling specific foods as good or bad. Health educators can shift the focus towards the joy of eating, the pleasure of sharing food with others, and the art of preparing food as a means of connecting with others.
While classroom lessons play a role, parents and guardians have a significant influence on their children’s understanding of food and nutrition. Engaging in conversations with children about what they are learning at school can provide an opportunity to explore their relationship with food and address any concerns. For children with eating disorders or special dietary needs, proactive communication with teachers before nutrition-related lessons can be beneficial.
This approach not only assists the child but also raises awareness among educators about potential pitfalls in these lessons, encouraging more inclusive and health-promoting practices. In conclusion, nutrition education in schools, while well-intentioned, must strike a balance between promoting healthy eating habits and avoiding potential harm to students’ well-being.
It is essential for educators and parents to collaborate in creating a learning environment that fosters a positive and holistic understanding of nutrition and food. By rethinking the way we teach nutrition, we can ensure that our children grow up with a healthy relationship with food, one that is not only nourishing but also joyful.
News Reference
Hanson, O. (2023). A “Healthy eating” curriculum can do more harm than good. Retrieved from https://edition.cnn.com/2023/10/09/health/unhealthy-school-nutrition-lessons-wellness/index.html
