Study Shows Improved Academic Results With Better School Dinners

Interesting results that might add some weight to Jamie Oliver’s efforts to fight childhood obesity:

Today an audience of prestigious economists was told that the healthier school dinners introduced by the celebrity chef had not only significantly improved pupils’ test results, but also cut the number of days they were off sick. The effects, researchers said, were comparable in magnitude to those seen after the introduction of the literacy hour in the 90s.

The proportion of 11-year-olds in Greenwich, south London, who did well in English and science rose after Oliver swept “turkey twizzlers” and chicken dinosaurs off canteen menus in favour of creamy coconut fish and Mexican bean wraps, according to a study of results in the south east London borough.

I haven’t looked at the study itself yet, but I don’t know if you can argue with the idea that offering better school lunches is going to have at least some kind of positive effect for kids.

Mar 29, 2010 :: Tagged under: child health, childhood obesity, health, obesity :: #

Jamie Oliver's TED Prize Wish

Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver took home the TED Prize for 2010. His message? We’re killing our kids with bad food, he said. Let’s change that.

“I wish for everyone to help create a strong, sustainable movement to educate every child about food, inspire families to cook again and empower people everywhere to fight obesity.” – Jamie Oliver

More about the talk, with additional resources, over at Barking Robot.

Feb 14, 2010 :: Tagged under: health, jamie oliver, obesity, ted talks :: #

How to Combat Childhood Obesity

Trick #3: Remind Michelle Obama that urban planning and design also play hugely impacting roles in getting kids outside to move and play.

(I’m on a “How To” kick lately.)

Feb 12, 2010 :: Tagged under: nutrition, obesity, urban planning :: #

'Is it Baby Fat or Obesity?'

Michelle Obama is not alone in asking the question – but admittedly it’s a deceptively difficult one to answer.

Feb 09, 2010 :: Tagged under: child health, health, health care, obesity :: #

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Copyright 2009 by Daniel Bigler. No stealing. Pretty please. It's kosher if you get a hold of Daniel and ask, though. Lost? Yeah, I like that show too. (Dig through some old stuff to find your way.) Wonder what this is all about? Read this. It's all good.