A recent study has found that a student's obesity in elementary school is correlated to poorer performance on math tests than peers who were not obese.
Researchers do not know why obesity and academic performance are correlated, but suggest that the difference in test scores could be attributed to emotional and/or health issues. Obese children often feel lonely, sadness, and anxiety due to lack of social acceptance by peers. These emotions may have an effect on their academic performance. Researchers also posit that health conditions related to obesity may have a physical effect, interfering with a student's learning and attendance.
We all know that obesity is a major concern; one-third of California children are overweight or obese. Not only does obesity cause physical problems such as diabetes and hypertension, but studies also suggest that obesity negatively affects emotional well-being of individuals. Now obesity has been linked to poor academic performance, beginning in elementary school. It is important to realize the effect that student health can have physically, emotionally, and academically.
What does your school do to help students learn about how obesity can harm them? How does your school help alleviate obesity in students?
To read the story from California Watch, click here.
Meghan Covert Russell
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