Poor diet and physical inactivity are second only to tobacco as
preventable causes of death among adults living in the United
States.i Childhood and adolescence are critical times in the
development of lifelong healthy eating and exercise habits.
Moreover, adolescent nutrition and physical activity are
important for the development of bone density, the
prevention of obesity and chronic diseases, and overall quality
of life. In addition, physical activity can improve academic
achievement by enhancing concentrationii and by helping
students be more attentive.iii