Parents and teachers have concern when the topic of eating healthy for students (children) come up. Eating healthy is a great challenge for students when they have the freedom to choose their food in the absence of their parents. Students are therefore, more likely to develop unhealthy eating habits. This could lead to a host of problems that also affect their performance in school.
High Fat, Low Dietary Nutrients
The average teenager gets at least 25% of their daily food energy intakes from the many snacks and sweet beverages they consume. Most of their favorite snacks are high in fat and low in dietary nutrients. These snacks are quick and convenient options for them to get some of their energy. However, it is not always a healthy choice.
Students also eat most of their meals away from home. They are therefore open to the influences of others, what they eat and others perception about certain foods. However, the students make choices on their own within this environment.
Effects on Health
The main problem students have is more about their intake of protein, carbs, vitamins and minerals. Most times, their intake is inadequate. Therefore, they develop a weak immune system, making them open to a number of illnesses. For this reason many students think that supplements are necessary, when in fact they can get all the nutrients they need from their food supply: a healthy dietary option.
The Key to Children Eating Healthy
Children, especially adolescents, can not be forced to eat a certain way. Parents and teachers (acting as gatekeepers for healthy information) can assist them in making healthy choices by setting up an environment so that nutritious food is available. They can also be there for them to give them the advice they need and guidance for healthy eating. Eventually it is up to children away from their gatekeepers to make the right choices.
Healthy Eating, Good Performance
Therefore, children who choose to stand in line for their broccoli and cauliflower, healthy cereals, fresh fruits during lunch time do so because they recognize the benefits of healthy eating. They have been taught about what healthy eating means. As a result, they therefore enjoy peak performance in all their activities because of eating healthy.
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