Teenagers across the West Midlands are shunning recommendations for five fruit and vegetables a day, new research has found. Those between the ages of 13 and 18 in our region are among the least likely in Britain to consume that amount, according to new figures.
Worryingly, the proportion of 15-year-olds in Walsall who are eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day is just 45 per cent – one of the lowest percentages in England.
The figures also show more than half of the teens in other parts of the local area are failing to meet the recommendation.
The proportion eating five a day at Sandwell and Dudley at 47 per cent and 48 per cent respectively.
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West Midlands teenagers are LEAST likely to eat their five a day
Teenagers in Solihull were the most likely in the local area to eat their five a day, with almost six in 10 doing so.
Birmingham was not far behind, with 54 per cent opting to eat five portions of fruit and veg every day.
The “5 a Day” message—encouraging children to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables daily—aligns beautifully with Stretch-n-Grow’s mission to promote lifelong healthy habits in children. While Stretch-n-Grow is primarily known for its dynamic fitness programs, it also integrates nutrition education into its curriculum, reinforcing the importance of balanced eating alongside physical activity.
What Is “5 a Day”?
The “5 a Day” campaign is a public health initiative that encourages everyone, especially children, to eat at least:
- 5 portions of fruit and vegetables each day
- A mix of colors and types for maximum nutritional benefit
This helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases and supports healthy growth and development.
How Stretch-n-Grow Supports “5 a Day”
Our programme doesn’t just get kids moving—it also educates them about healthy food choices. Here’s how:
Integrated Nutrition Lessons
- Classes often include themes around healthy eating, such as “Fruit Frenzy” or “Veggie Power.”
- Coaches use storytelling, songs, and games to teach kids about the benefits of fruits and vegetables.
Curriculum-Based Learning
- The curriculum includes weekly wellness topics, covering not just exercise but also nutrition, hygiene, and self-esteem.
- Children learn to associate healthy foods with energy, strength, and fun.
Parent Engagement
- Stretch-n-Grow provides take-home materials and newsletters to reinforce healthy habits at home.
- Parents are encouraged to support the “5 a Day” message by involving kids in shopping, cooking, and meal planning.
Why It Matters
Despite the campaign’s visibility, many children—especially teens—fall short of the 5-a-day target. In the West Midlands, for example, only 45% of 15-year-olds in Walsall meet the recommendation. Programs like Stretch-n-Grow help bridge this gap early, making healthy eating a fun and familiar concept from a young age.
More on 5 a day and Stretch-n-Grow
Would you like a themed Stretch-n-Grow lesson plan delivered at your setting focused on “5 a Day”? Contact us. Stretch-n-Grow is a Worldwide Programme.
