The conference summarizing the two-year project “Appetite for Healthy Eating” is behind us, which took place on October 15, 2024 at the building of the Faculty of Public Health in Bytom, Silesian Medical University in Katowice.
The project, carried out by the staff of the Department of Dietetics in cooperation with friendly dietitians from the Department of Public Health, was subsidized by the state budget under the Program of the Minister of Education and Science “Social responsibility of science - popularization of science and promotion of sports.” The initiator of the project was Agata Kiciak, MD.
Within the framework of the project, scientific research was conducted, including body composition analysis, examination of eating habits, lifestyle and eating disorders, as well as blood pressure measurements. In addition, educational modules were carried out on healthy eating using the world's healthiest cuisines as an example, and on evaluating the quality of food products using sensory methods. Secondary schools from Bytom, Zabrze and Tarnowskie Góry participated in the project.
The conference presented preliminary findings, which showed that overweight and obesity are present in 46% of boys and 34% of girls, as well as a lack of adequate physical activity among students. Deficiencies were also found in the intake of vegetables, fruits, whole grain products, legumes and fermented milk drinks. The aim of the project was to increase students' nutritional awareness and motivate them to develop proper eating habits and promote a healthy lifestyle.
The event was attended by the authorities of the Bytom Public Health Department, representatives of the Education Department, principals of the participating schools, representatives of the Polish Dietetics Association, and students and teachers involved in the project. The ceremony was highlighted by a concert by students of the Frederic Chopin High School of Music in Bytom.
Our sincere thanks go to school principals, teachers, students and artists who actively participated in the “Appetite for Healthy Nutrition” project.
