Background: Low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, serum triglyceride concentrations, blood pressure, obesity, and blood glucose are all known to contribute to risk for development of atherosclerosis. Research demonstrates that dietary modifications, which reduce saturated fat intake, impact the likelihood of development of atherosclerosis.
Objective: The Atherosclerosis and Teen Eating Study was designed to determine whether a short-term health educational program, complemented by availability of alternative low-fat school lunches, could result in favorable changes to healthier eating patterns. Additionally, the study was designed to measure whether changes in eating behaviors were sufficient to result in risk-factor reduction.
Methods: The 6-week study consisted of a defined educational curriculum in addition to the availability of alternative low-fat cafeteria meals. Six 1-hour educational sessions on heart-healthy nutrition and exercise were presented over a period of 2 weeks. Self-perceived nutritional intake was assessed at baseline and the conclusion of the trial via a documented method, the Eating Pattern Assessment Tool. Routine laboratory work and blood pressure were measured at baseline and conclusion of the study.
Results: Eating Pattern Assessment Tool score decreased by 14 points (P < 0.001), indicating a significant fall in fat consumption. Fasting glucose and diastolic blood pressure were also reduced. Mean fasting glucose decreased by 3.1 mg/dL (P = 0.041) and mean diastolic blood pressure fell by 6.6 mmHg (P < 0 .001). The percentage reduction in low-density lipoprotein, the primary endpoint, showed a trend downward but did not achieve statistical significance (P = 0.075).
Conclusion: School-based educational programs and improved choice of foods focused on cardiovascular risk reduction have the capacity to positively influence eating patterns and risk factors associated with future development of atherosclerosis.