Evaluation of the effectiveness of nutrition education program on the food preferences of school-age children and their obesity status

School-age childhood is a period in which children live intensively, and many factors can affect children's eating habits during this period. This study; It aims to evaluate the effect of game-supported nutrition education on school-age children's nutritional knowledge and behavior and their obesity status. The scope of the study is 8-11 years old, studying at Mersin Mezitli Municipality Primary School and Secondary School. Body mass index (BMI) ≥85. It consists of 54 (Male: 20, Female: 34) students who are slightly overweight and whose BMI is ≥97 percentile. Nutritional habits, food preferences, and nutritional knowledge levels were questioned with a questionnaire. Mediterranean Diet Quality Index (KIDMED), 24-hour food consumption record, food consumption frequency and anthropometric measurements were evaluated before and after training. Additionally, the Physical Activity Questionnaire (PAQ-C) was administered. Nutrition training is 6 weeks and within the scope of this research; A survey form, tape measure, weighing machine, computer package programs and various game materials were used. The average age (±S) of the children participating in the study is 9.8±0.82 years. The number of main meals per day is 3 main meals with a rate of 51.9%, and it was found that the most skipped meal was lunch. It was observed that the average body weight in girls decreased after the training compared to before, and there were improvements in BMI z score values after the training in both genders. A statistically significant difference was found in the intake of nutrients and food consumption frequency before and after training (p<0.05). While the individuals' KIDMED scores were 4.9±2.53 before the training, it increased to 8.5±1.98 after the training, and it was determined that there was a statistically significant difference between these two values (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between physical activity levels and gender. It is thought that this study will contribute to the solution of childhood obesity and shed light on future studies. It should not be forgotten that children need education against the risks of unhealthy nutrition and dietitians should be given due importance.