Healthy eating. Myth or reality? First-person experiences of University-Municipality synergy

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a strong social trend regarding the knowledge of the foods we consume; the relationship between nutrition and health has become strongly established both in our country and in the world. In Argentina, Law No. 27,642 on the Promotion of Healthy Eating was recently passed, with the main objective of guaranteeing the right to health and adequate nutrition. This work was carried out within the framework of an Extension Project, with the aim of providing information and tools to the community of Luján on different aspects related to healthy eating and the prevention of diet-related diseases. Four workshops were held for teenagers from the city of Luján, Buenos Aires, where different topics related to food were developed. Each meeting featured a theoretical presentation and a recreational activity related to the topic. The event generated great enthusiasm among the participants and an interesting exchange of experiences on healthy eating. It was found that most participants do not have knowledge about aspects related to nutritional labeling and in most cases, they do not look at or consult the labels. They were invited to prepare different meals, showing them the importance of each type of food. This activity provided messages to improve habits and relationships with food, promoting the importance of a varied and balanced diet, seeking to improve the quality of life of the community.