IMPACT OF NUTRITION EDUCATION ON THE CONSUMPTION PATTERNS OF CEREALS, GRAINS, PULSES, AND LEGUMES AMONG OVERWEIGHT AND OBESE ADOLESCENT GIRLS

This study aimed to assess the impact of a nutrition education intervention on the consumption patterns of cereals, grains, pulses, and legumes among overweight and obese adolescent girls. A total of 120 participants, divided into four groups (overweight control, overweight experiment, obesity control, and obesity experiment), were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Data were collected on the frequency of consumption of different types of cereals, grains, pulses, and legumes, categorized into daily, weekly, fortnightly, monthly, and occasional intake. The results revealed significant changes in consumption patterns following the nutrition education intervention. In the experiment groups, there was an increase in the frequency of consumption of healthier options like whole grains and pulses, and a decrease in the consumption of refined grains. In contrast, the control groups showed little to no change. The study highlights the positive effect of nutrition education in promoting healthier dietary choices among overweight and obese adolescents, contributing to improved nutritional practices. These findings suggest that nutrition education can be an effective tool in modifying dietary habits and potentially mitigating the risks associated with obesity and overweight conditions.