A systematic review investigating interventions that can help reduce consumption of

sugar-sweetened beverages in children leading to changes in body fatness

This study was taken place in 8 different locations across the world. five were undertaken
in Europe (one in England, one in Germany, three in the Netherlands), one in the USA, and two
in Brazil. For one of the studies based in Brazil, schools from a particularly poor region were
targeted for the intervention. Seven of the studies involved normal weight children with one
under- taken amongst overweight and obese children. Seven of the studies were conducted
through schools, whereas one was home based. The children in the studies ranged in mean age
between 8 and 15 years. The length of the interventions ranged between 4 and 18 months and the
time of follow- up between 7 and 36 months, with a follow-up conducted at the end of the
intervention in four of the studies. Sample sizes ranged from 224 to 2950 children. Due to the
increase in obesity rates this study looks at the amount of sugar drinks that are consumed by
children and adolescents. They also look at ways to prevent such high rates of obesity through
intervention programs particular through school.
The study concluded that the use of healthy school related programs resulted in fewer
obesity rates. Based on evidence from the studies that have been completed in this field, schoolbased education programs focused on reducing SSB consumption and incorporating follow-up
modules may offer health professionals the best opportunities for implementing effective and
sustainable interventions that are effective in both children and adolescents. Changing the school
environment to support such educational programs could improve the effectiveness of these
interventions.

Combinations of obesity prevention strategies in US elementary schools: a

critical review.
This article looked at the difference between single factor obesity prevention programs,
oppose to multifactor programs and their effectiveness. There were 12 studies examined to
gather data on their results to find the most influential factors to fight obesity. Most of the studies
examined the effects of community and parental involvement on programs. The results showed
an adverse effect once the programs had been stopped.
This review suggests there is not one perfect intervention method. The review offers
several strategies that can collectively address obesity. These strategies include but are not
limited to, school intervention programs, physical activity, nutrition, and parental involvement.
The duration of intervention programs is not known but its recommended that it remains in effect
during elementary school years. Throughout the intervention BMI should be closely monitored
to ensure program goals are going in the right direction.

Snacks, Sweetened Beverages, Added Sugars, and Schools

With obesity at an all time high the USDA has began implementing new ways for
students to access healthier foods. As of 2004 the school food industry has began replacing
empty calories such as soft drinks with water or pure fruit juice. They have also implemented
more federally run programs to ensure students have food readily available to them even during
the summer months. They have selected 5 fundamental food groups to include in their programs;
these products are vegetables, low fat milk, fruit, whole grains, and lean meat. The foods are
prepared with minimal additives and portioned based on their characteristics.
As a result of USDA programs and challenges schools can accomplish state and local
recognition for their success. The best way to achieve healthier lifestyles is to include family
counseling to seek more rich diets to avoid obesity and other health concerns. Counseling can be
given by pediatric physicians or even dieticians. Some advice that might be given is reduce the
consumption of processed foods in addition to fatty foods. It is recommended that that whole
community be involved in this process to help decrease the consumption of foods through
education.