The
scholarly research findings summarized in this document provide our nation with
a comprehensive picture of the exceptional value of the school breakfast
program. The study found that children from homes without sufficient food have
a poorer overall health status than do children from similar backgrounds who
have enough to eat. Children who experience hunger get sick more often, are
more likely to have ear infections, experience iron deficiency anemia and get
hospitalized more frequently. They miss more days of school and are far less
likely to be able to learn when they do attend classes. When children fail to
get sufficient dietary energy, particularly in the mornings, their cognitive
capacity is impaired: their brains do not have sufficient fuel for attention,
concentration and learning. This interactive relationship between sufficient
nourishment and brain function also extends to the emotional and behavioral
health of children. Youngsters who do not get enough to eat have poorer mental
health; they are more likely to be withdrawn and inattentive. They also exhibit
more disruptive behaviors and disciplinary disorders, require more counseling
and other mental health services, and are more likely to need other special
educational services.
Brown, J. L., Beardslee, W. H., & Prothrow-Stith, D.
(2008). Impact of school breakfast on children’s health and learning: An
analysis of the scientific research. United States: Sodexo Foundation. http://us.stop-hunger.org/files/live/sites/stophunger-us/files/HungerPdf/Impact%20of%20School%20Breakfast%20Study_tcm150-212606.pdf
