An Evidence-based Systematic Review on the Influence of Food and Nutrition Literacy Interventions on the Dietary Choices of Children and Adolescents in the Middle East and North Africa Region

Children and adolescents in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) represent a crucial target population for nutritional interventions. This group is particularly susceptible to making unhealthy food choices, potentially leading to long-term consequences on their growth, and overall well-being. The objective of our systematic review is to determin the effectiveness of food and nutrition literacy interventions in influencing the dietary choices of children and adolescents in the MENA region.

We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA guideline for reporting. The Search using words such as food consumption, nutrition literacy, Middle East and North Africa and its English synonyms in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases until May 1402. 257 articles were reviewed based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and relevant information was recorded for each article. 257 articles were reviewed. After removing duplicates, titles and abstracts, and then the full text and comprehensive explanation of the working method according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, review and related information were recorded for each article. Finally, 10 articles were selected and reviewed

The studies under review showed that interventions aimed at improving nutrition knowledge had a positive impact on nutrition-related outcomes and helped combat nutrition-related health issues. In addition, the common themes were improving nutrition knowledge, increasing awareness of the benefits and drawbacks of different foods, promoting positive changes in eating habits, addressing nutrient deficiencies, managing weight and body composition, utilizing theoretical frameworks, and evaluating the effectiveness of school-based interventions.

This review highlights the significance of nutrition education in enhancing food intake and weight management. It is recommended that future interventions be targeted towards schools and families, while utilizing behavior change models to maximize their effectiveness in improving the nutritional health of children and adolescents in the Mena region.