While the Metro Boston area still has lower obesity rates than the national average, obesity rates are rising at an alarming pace. This is leading to an increase in obesity-related illnesses, like diabetes, and is being disproportionately reflected in communities of color, immigrant communities, and among the elderly. Targeting children with exercise and healthy eating programs has shown to be an effective way of reducing childhood obesity, which, in turn, reduces adult obesity. School nutrition is another area that has long been a source of concern for advocates. Because many students eat one or more meals a day at school, serving fresh healthy food there can not only positively impact their health, it can help to create positive eating habits that can last their lifetimes.
10) Continuously assess school wellness and health policies
11) Disseminate and implement updated health and physical education framework and curricula
12) Establish standards for healthy snacks and beverages in schools
13) Invest in professional staff and facilities for fresh food preparation
14) Expand farm to school programs
15) Create “Edible Schoolyards” and associated programming