A school district implemented a universal free breakfast program and later observed modest improvements in math scores and attendance but no change in BMI after one year. Which of the following interpretations is the most accurate evaluation of these results?

• A. The program likely improved short-term cognitive performance and attendance by reducing morning hunger, but BMI changes may require longer exposure or complementary strategies (e.g., physical activity and home environment changes) because weight outcomes respond more slowly and are multifactorial.
• B. The program caused students to consume more high-sugar cafeteria foods overall, which explains the lack of BMI change; thus, replacing breakfasts with home-packed meals would be the only logical solution.
• C. The program increased caloric intake in the mornings and therefore must have failed to provide any benefit; improved test scores were probably due to seasonal effects rather than the breakfast program.
• D. The program is ineffective because any intervention that provides breakfast should produce immediate and large reductions in BMI within a year; therefore the observed academic improvements are likely unrelated to breakfast participation.

Answer: (A)