Inadequate Nutrient Intakes in Youth of a Remote First Nation Community: Challenges and the Need for Sustainable Changes in Program and Policy

Abstract

Background. The current study established baseline nutrient intakes of youth and examined the potential for sustainability of a pilot school snack program in the remote First Nation of Kashechewan, Ontario, Canada. Methods. Twenty-four-hour dietary recalls established baseline intakes in grade 6–8 students (n=43). Subsequently, a pilot healthy school snack program was initiated. Dietary recalls were completed one week (n=43) and one year after the program (n=67). Paired Wilcoxon signed-ranks tests were used to detect changes in intakes. Impressions of the teachers (n=16), principal, and students were collected qualitatively. Results. Most youth had dietary intakes below current standards. Although vitamin C (P=0.024) and fibre (P=0.015) intakes improved significantly after one week, these improvements were not sustained over the following year. Program impressions were positive. Conclusion. The need for a nutrition program is clear. While benefits were realized in the short term, improvements could not be maintained. Policy changes are needed to address barriers to sustainability.