Water First
Drinking sugar-sweetened beverages, such as sodas and other drinks with added sugar, is a major contributor to obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, cavities, and other chronic conditions. Children spend substantial time in schools where they consume up to 50% of daily calories, including those from sugary drinks.
While schools have restricted access to sugary drinks on their campuses, there has been limited focus on making sure that students have access to healthy beverage alternatives like safe drinking water. If students drink more water, it may not only help them maintain a healthy weight, but may also help to prevent cavities and improve their ability to learn.
Goal
The goal of the Water First randomized controlled study is to understand if providing clean and fresh water in schools and promoting its intake helps students to have healthier nutrition and weight.
Eligible Schools
Elementary schools in the San Francisco Bay Area
Schools that have at least 50% students who are eligible for free and reduced price meals
Limited access to appealing drinking water such as water dispensers or stations; no access to cups or other drinking vessels
Water First Program
Three water bottle filling stations will be installed at the school
Compostable or recyclable cups are provided in the cafeteria
Each 4th grade student receives a BPA-free water bottle for home and school
Children's singer Andy Z will perform a song about drinking water
Participating classrooms receive lessons about why drinking water is important for health
Special activities for 4th grade classes
Some schools get the program now whereas others receive a modified version of the program at a later date
Water First Evaluation
School-level evaluation includes the following activities:
Observations of what students drink at school, including from drinking fountains and water stations
Audits of drinking water sources and other beverages available at school
Surveys with administrators and food service personnel about school nutrition and physical activity policies
School administrators and personnel receive gift cards for their participation
Fourth grade students participate in the following evaluation activities:
Complete two 24-hour food and beverage diaries
Have height and weight measurements taken three times throughout the study
Complete short surveys about beverage intake, screen time and physical activity three times throughout the study
Students receive movie gift cards for their participation
Policy Implications
The information gathered during the study may help schools, public health officials and policymakers better understand how improvements in water access and water promotion affect student health.
Study Status
Funder
National Institutes of Health
