The benefits of healthy eating for students' physical and mental development
A healthy diet plays a fundamental role in children and teens’ physical and mental development. Students spend a large part of their day at school, and so the school canteen can have a great impact on their eating habits. The quality of the food they eat not only affects their academic performance, but also their overall well-being and long-term development.
4 benefits of a healthy diet in the school canteen
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Improved academic performance: Studies have shown that a balanced, nutrient-rich diet improves concentration and memory, essential factors for learning. Children who eat fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains tend to perform better in tests and have a longer attention span in class.
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Physical and mental development: Our brains need the right nutrients to be able to grow and develop. Foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids support cognitive and physical development to help children reach their full potential.
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Protection against illnesses: A balanced diet can prevent some chronic health problems such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Educating children about the importance of healthy eating in the school canteen can have a lasting impact and reduce their risk of developing health problems later on in life.
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Healthy habits: The eating habits that we develop in childhood often continue into adulthood. Promoting healthy eating at school teaches children to make informed choices about what they eat and encourages them to adopt a healthy lifestyle when they’re older.
Strategies to promote healthy eating in the school canteen
- Well-balanced and varied menus: School menus must include a wide variety of nutrient-rich foods. Adding fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains ensures that children get the nutrients they need to develop and grow.
- Food education: Educational programmes can teach children about the importance of a balanced diet and how to make healthy choices. Interactive activities, workshops and educational materials can make learning about nutrition fun and effective.
- Being part of the community: Parents and carers should be involved in promoting healthy eating habits. Workshops, information sessions and resources can help families eat healthily at home.
- Attractive and positive atmosphere: The school canteen should be a pleasant environment where children feel comfortable and motivated to try new and healthy foods. Colourful decorations and friendly staff can make a big difference to how children perceive food.
- Healthy food policies: School policies that support the provision of healthy foods and limit the availability of unhealthy options should be implemented. This may include getting rid of or banning sugary drinks and reducing processed foods that are high in saturated fats.
The school canteen plays a crucial role in encouraging students to eat healthily. Tasty, varied and balanced menus, in addition to nutritional education and a positive environment, can help schools have a significant influence on children’s eating habits.
Promoting healthy eating not only improves academic performance and physical development, but also lays the foundations for a healthy and productive adult life. Investing in children’s nutritional health is undoubtedly one of BSS schools’ most important challenges and commitments.
At Best Schools in Spain (BSS), we understand the importance of healthy eating for our students. The school cafeterias at BSS schools offer balanced diets designed by child nutrition experts. Additionally, nutritional education programs are implemented, and community involvement is promoted to ensure our students develop positive eating habits that last a lifetime. The health and well-being of our students are our priority, and we constantly work to improve our food policies and practices.
