Resumo

GRACA, Pedro; MATEUS, Maria Palma  e  LIMA, Rui Matias. The Mediterranean Diet Concept and the Promotion of Healthy Eating in Portuguese Schools. Nutrícias [online]. 2013, n.19, pp.06-09. ISSN 2182-7230.

With the increased prevalence of overweight and obesity in recent decades and the consequent increase of associated chronic illness, early disability and significant reduction of life expectancy, the acquisition of healthy life styles since childhood takes an extreme relevance. In this context, schools can play a key role alongside the families. The concept of the Mediterranean Diet integrates a certain way of eating, proper nutrition and appropriate proximity and seasonal food production, environmental, social sustainability and the protection of local cultural values. The multidimensionality of this concept makes it particularly interesting as an integrating tool in pedagogy and to develop actions to promote healthy eating habits at school level. The promotion of healthy eating habits in schools must pass, among other aspects, by a clear policy that encompasses the connection with the local community food production, food supply in school environment, curricula, technical support to a healthy diet, the school environment and the ability of school spaces and their technicians to encourage the preparation of food and the consumption of healthy meals. The recognition of the Mediterranean Diet as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in December 4, 2013, represents for Portugal an opportunity for this concept to be synergistically integrated in the different national and regional development models, starting with the crucial sector of education.

Palavras-chave : Mediterranean Diet; Obesity; Food policy; School meals; Food education programs.

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