Universal Free School Meals Linked to Reduced High Blood Pressure in Students

A recent study highlights the positive impact of universal free school meal programs on children's health, extending beyond nutrition to include blood pressure management. Since the implementation of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) a decade ago, which allows schools in low-income areas to provide free meals to all students, researchers have observed several benefits. Participating students tend to select healthier, more nutritious lunches, are less frequently suspended, and may perform better academically.

The new research, conducted by the University of Washington and published in JAMA Network Open, investigates another significant development: a decrease in high blood pressure prevalence among students attending schools with CEP. By analyzing medical and school attendance records of over 155,000 youths across California and Oregon, the study found that schools participating in CEP experienced a 2.71% reduction in students with high blood pressure over five years—a net drop of 10.8%. Additionally, there was a notable decrease in students' average diastolic blood pressure.

These health improvements are largely attributed to the nutritional quality of school meals, which have become more aligned with the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, known to be effective in controlling hypertension. The enhanced nutritional standards introduced in 2010 under the CEP law have played a key role, making school meals more accessible and reducing barriers to participation, such as income-related stigma and administrative hurdles.

Contrary to common assumptions, the findings suggest that universal free meals benefit all students, including those from low-income families who are commonly eligible for free lunch programs. In fact, 85% of the students in the study were enrolled in Medicaid or similar programs, indicating that the health benefits extend to vulnerable populations.

Despite current political debates and potential funding cuts to food assistance programs like SNAP, the study underscores the importance of sustained investment in universal school meal programs. Policymakers are encouraged to consider these health benefits when debating the future of such initiatives, as they support not only dietary health but also reductions in high blood pressure risk, which is a vital factor in preventing cardiovascular disease.