The percent of Americans—both children and adults—who are overweight or obese is staggering. Roughly two-thirds of adults are overweight and 32 percent of children and adolescents. Obesity is linked to serious health consequences such as heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and more. In recognition of this problem, California 4-H is committed to educating 4-H youth and their families about healthy habits and encouraging healthy options at 4-H events and activities.

Research Sites

• Center for Nutrition in Schools

• Nutrition Policy Institute

• UC Davis Department of Nutrition - Outreach

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute

UC Delivers Articles

• Collaborative 4-H and Nutrition project identifies why teens are not drinking water at school

• Integrated youth, families, and communities programming increases health and wellness

• Project 4-H2O Provides Free Zero Calorie Education and Option at Sugartown Festival

• Teens develop as leaders by mentoring children in school garden program

• UC CalFresh and 4-H Partner to Develop a Generation of Student Chefs

• 4-H Teens Become Role Models for Healthy Living

• UC CalFresh and 4-H Cooking Academy in Yolo County

• Youth Engagement Increases Nutrition Knowledge in Elementary School Students!

Journal Articles

• Young People and Healthy Eating

Nutrition Surveys

• California Health Interview Survey

• National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey