The United States is still in the midst of an obesity epidemic, with children being heavier and less athletic than ever. However, schools with the help of nutritionists are making strides to streamline their lunch menus and hopefully their students. More challenging and productive physical education programs are also helping students shed pounds in order to add years to their lives. Although the work done is progress, there is still a long ways to go. Are you interested in the fields of nutrition or physical education? If you are, you are certainly being called to the principals office, but this time for a job.

The Journal of Adolescent Health has done a study showing the various areas in America that have made a positive difference in their regimes. 85% of schools studied complied with beverage standards that took effect 2 years ago while 64% met healthy food standards. In Washington State, the study revealed that students ingested far less sugary beverages when they were not widely offered in school. Also, they took in far less junk food when it was taken off the menus and from the vending machines. Texas schools are dedicating more time to physical fitness. Gym class is no longer a time to take a break – it is a time to break a sweat. However, nationally, physical education is a carousel of differing standards. Some school districts require physical education while some don’t need to offer it.

The study looks at all this data and tries to find a way to implement changes that are realistic and necessary to combat the obesity epidemic. C. Tracy Orleans, senior scientist at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, said that the study “is a valuable addition to our growing knowledge of which policy efforts are working and which are not.”

Researchers call for even more policies regarding nutrition and physical fitness in schools. Although good work has been done, the test is certainly not over. Are you interested in helping to shape up America’s children? Look into a nutrition or physical fitness program today.