Nutritional status impacting academics among school children in selected schools of North Chennai

Background: Though numerous variables affect academic performance in children, one of the primary underlying causes is poor nutrition. Nutritional status determines how the body develops, how the mind works, and how one behaves and hence should be given sufficient priority in growing children. The likelihood of acquiring type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in children and adolescents with poor nutrition and unhealthy eating habits. Aim: This study aimed to determine the nutritional status of girls and boys studying in grade 9 and the influence of nutritional status with respect to achievements in academics. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study done based on the permission obtained in a private school located in North Chennai. The sample of 210 children of grade 9 was selected based on their academic performance, socioeconomic status, age, type of school, sex, family size (siblings order), and parent’s educational status randomly. Data were collected in the form of questionnaire to understand the impact of nutritional status influencing academic achievements. Results: Of the 210 participants studied, the nutritional status among boys and girls was perceived differently (P < 0.01). The nutritional status with respect to parental education and sibling order also had a significant difference (P < 0.01). There was a positive correlation between academic achievement in the quarterly and half-yearly exams and the nutritional status of the students. Conclusions: The study report clearly indicates that there is a relationship between the nutritional status of the children and their academic achievement. The nutritional status of children has also an impact on their risk of developing diabetes.