Home⇛SALETTINIAN OPEN ACADEMIC REVIEW⇛vol. 8 no. 1 (2026)

Nutritional Status, Food Choice, And Eating Behavior Of Grade 10 Students: Basis For School-Based Nutrition Program

Emmanuel Buendia

Discipline: social sciences (non-specific)

 

Abstract:

The study was conducted at San Mateo Vocational and Industrial High School, San Mateo, Isabela, to assess the nutritional status, food choice, and eating behavior of 141 Grade 10 students who were purposively selected based on their computed Body Mass Index (BMI). The study utilized a descriptive and comparative research design. The results showed that 53.9% of the respondents are normal, 36.2% are underweight, 6.4% are overweight, and 3.5% are obese. Despite differences in age, sex, and family size, the respondents generally reported positive food choices and eating behaviors. However, a significant percentage was found to be underweight, overweight, or obese, showing the need for targeted interventions. Moreover, the study found no correlation between food choices and nutritional status, suggesting that factors beyond dietary intake significantly determine overall health. Additionally, there is no significant difference in food choices based on demographic factors. The findings emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach to promoting healthy eating habits and nutritional well-being among students, involving collaboration between schools, families, and communities. Recommendations include providing comprehensive nutrition education, ensuring healthy food options in canteens, engaging families in promoting healthy eating habits, and addressing social, environmental, and individual determinants of eating behaviors and nutritional status.



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