Relation of Dietary Practices and Academic Achievement Among School-Going Children in Kattankulathur Block, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu

Background Dietary practices play a crucial role in the overall development of school-going children, potentially influencing their academic performance. Nutrition is a fundamental component of children's overall health and development, influencing both physical growth and cognitive functions. School-going children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of their diet, as it impacts their ability to concentrate, learn, and perform academically. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted with 262 schoolchildren aged 11-16 years from various schools in Kattankulathur Block, Chengalpattu District. Dietary practices were assessed using a pretested questionnaire, while academic performance was evaluated based on school records. Data analysis included a t-test, as well as correlation and regression analyses, to examine the relationships between the dependent and independent variables. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, IBM Corp., Version 26, Armonk, NY). Results The study found a significant correlation between balanced dietary practices, including regular intake of fruits and vegetables, and higher academic achievement. Studies show that 88.2% of children have three regular meals daily, 88.9% have breakfast consistently, and 24.8% of children have excellent school performance. Children with poor dietary habits exhibited lower academic performance compared to those with healthier diets. Conclusion Nutritional practices significantly impact academic performance among school children. Improving dietary habits can enhance cognitive functions and academic outcomes, emphasizing the need for better nutritional education and interventions in schools.