Database research record2019·Global
Can participating in school gardens increase fruit and vegetable intake, subsequently enhancing students’ academic performance?
Victoria Holmes
Proceedings of Student Research and Creative Inquiry Day
Urban Farm DB summary
This literature review analyzed research data from 2002-2018 to investigate the effects of school garden programs on students' fruit and vegetable intake and the impact of increased intake on academic performance. Findings support the claim that school garden programs promote an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption among participating students. In one study, nutrition education and garden-based activities doubled daily fruit and vegetable servings among sixth graders. A positive relationship was shown between academic performance and fruit and vegetable consumption, but more studies are needed to understand long-term effects.