Abstract

Author(s): Torres-Lista, Virginia1,2,3; Herrera, Luis Carlos1,2,3; Gálvez Amores, Ida1,3; Noriega, Gabriela1,3; Montenegro, Markelda3

Introduction: In the school stage, the continuous changes of both the growth and the physical, psychic and social development of the person, especially life habits, such as food, physical activity and sleep / wakefulness routine, etc., are perceived, being These are some of the most important factors that determine the growth and development of children. However, in the last decade there has been an increase in consumption of foods high in fat and carbohydrates, such as sweets, soft drinks, industrial products and snacks; also an increase in sedentary behaviors that influence health.

Objective: To analyze the life habits that are involved in the academic performance of the TERCE test of Panamanian children.

Method: It is a study with a mixed approach, because quantitative / qualitative aspects were analyzed. The sample is not probabilistic, consisting of 515 students, between 11- 12 years of age. It was selected according to the results in the TERCE test (high-low performance). The Qualitative Questionnaire on Healthy Living Habits was applied. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: the comparison of the TERCE score groups (highlow performance), indicated that low-score children consume less fruits, vegetables, proteins; at the same time, they have less quality of sleep habits and physical exercise. In addition, it was found that the consumption of less than three meals a day is a risk factor in the academic performance of students (OR = 4.51, 95% CI).

Conclusions: Proper food and nutrition during school age allows children to acquire healthy habits, being one of the main objectives for the family and educational community. For this reason, the practice of healthy lifestyle habits since childhood prevents and favors ideal levels of health, acting daily in improving the educational level and reducing learning disorders caused by nutritional deficiencies.