Every year, more adults get diagnosed with lifelong chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and so on. In my own family, 8 of my aunts and uncles have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. My mom as well is currently diabetic and a dialysis patient. While several factors contributed to their conditions, something that had a considerable impact on them was their lack of nutrition literacy. Nutrition impacts individuals early in life, so young children must receive the proper education on making healthy food choices to lead healthier lives. Thus, I ask that the Illinois State Board of Education make nutrition education mandatory for elementary schools.

      In an article by the CDC, it is found that young children do not receive adequate nutrition education, as they receive only 8 hours per school year. This is unsatisfactory, as there is such little time for the children to learn about how nutrition can impact their bodies over the long term, both physically and emotionally. Not only would such classes offer physical and mental wellness throughout their elementary years, but they will also promote healthier outcomes in their adulthood, such as having the chance to reduce obesity rates. Nutrition education has the chance to reduce energy intake from sugary food items in children, which can be helpful in preventing chronic conditions associated with the consumption of these foods. Furthermore, vegetable and fruit intake in children could also be improved through these nutritional programs.

      All these improvements in the children’s nutrition can have long-lasting effects. Poor nutrition is known to lead to increased risks of chronic conditions in adulthood, which is why implementing these nutrition classes in elementary schools is so essential in reducing these risks. We must call on the Illinois State Board of Education to change the school curriculums immediately so that both children and adults not only lead happier and healthier lives, but be free of chronic conditions.