Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: The lack of statistical data in Guatemala raises the question of knowing the biofortification of grains and its benefits on the nutritional status of primary school students. Objective: To determine the nutritional benefits of the consumption of biofortified grains as part of the school feeding program of the official mixed schools in the Veguitas village of the municipality of San Juan Ermita, Chiquimula, in comparison with the Linda Vista school, which do not implement grain consumption biofortified. Method: Prospective observational research, with a cross-sectional design, evaluating 67 students with a range of 8 to 14 years, divided into two schools. Results: The average height for the Linda Vista school for both sexes was 1.37 cm and in Aldea Veguitas it was 1.39 cm for girls and 1.38 cm for men, observing greater growth in students from Aldea Veguitas. The average weight for the female students of Linda Vista was 33.80 kg and for males 34.55 kg, in Aldea Veguitas for females it was 33.21 kg and for males it was 33.41 kg. Conclusions: During the two years of implementation of the biofortified grains program at the Aldea Veguitas school, the children have reached a nutritional status within the normal ranges based on the criteria provided by the Body Mass Index. In comparison between the children who are part of this program and those who are not, the evidence collected is insufficient to ensure the benefits of biofortification.