COMPUTER-BASED NUTRITION RECOMMENDATION SYSTEM FOR GRADE-12 STUDENTS AT THE IMMACULADA CONCEPCION COLLEGE

Abstract

The introduction underscores the critical link between students' academic performance and their nutrition, noting that healthy eating habits correlate with higher attendance, better class engagement, and improved grades. It highlights a current gap at Immaculada Concepcion College (ICC) where a comprehensive dietary supervision and meal recommendations are lacking.The role of computer-based systems in education is emphasized, particularly in offering personalized food recommendations and providing essential nutritional metrics such as BMI and BMR. Implementing a Nutritional Recommendation System at ICC is proposed to streamline operations, enhance communication, and promote healthier student lifestyles, aiming for improved educational outcomes and overall well-being. Systems that help users discover new preferences, assess nutritional needs, and consider other dietary factors can provide personalized recommendations for healthier eating. Additionally, the custom food recommendation feature allows users to further refine their food preferences based on nutritional values. The study utilized a standardized survey method conducted over a two-day period from May 15 to May 17, 2024, with Grade 12 students as respondents. The total sample size was 326 students, distributed across different academic strands: ABM (62), STEM (45), HUMSS (120), HE (38), ICT (49), and GA (12). The study evaluates a computer-based nutrition recommendation system implemented for Grade-12 students at Immaculada Concepcion College.It examines the system's impact on students' dietary habits and health awareness. Initial findings indicate positive feedback on usability and effectiveness in encouraging healthier eating habits across various academic strands (ABM, STEM, HUMSS, etc.). Challenges identified include technological limitations and privacy issues, suggesting the need for ongoing refinement and stronger safeguards. The study recommends continuous system enhancements to maximize its educational and health benefits for students.