Abstract
Healthy eating is a determining factor in students' overall health and academic performance, especially during adolescence, a stage in which eating habits are consolidated and nutritional needs increase. In this context, the present study aimed to analyze the eating habits of 4th and 5th grade secondary school students, identify the factors that influence their adoption, and develop proposals aimed at strengthening healthy eating that contributes to improving their academic performance. The research was conducted using a quantitative, descriptive-exploratory approach and a non-experimental cross-sectional design. The population consisted of 378 students, and the sample consisted of 39 students selected through simple random probability sampling. A structured questionnaire with 15 items on a Likert scale was used, administered before and after the intervention and supplemented with direct observation. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics with SPSS 2020 and Microsoft Excel. The results showed high consumption of ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks, as well as low intake of fruits and vegetables, a situation associated with health problems such as anemia, overweight, and decreased academic performance. It was also identified that economic status, limited nutrition education, and the scarce availability of healthy foods in the school environment significantly influence the adoption of unhealthy habits. The strategies implemented strengthened nutritional knowledge and food awareness, highlighting the need to integrate nutrition education as a cross-cutting theme in schools.
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