It is the time of year that students are heading back to school, so there might be a decrease in physical activity – which could mean trouble in the classroom. There have been studies on the effect poor nutrition has on the brain, so it’s essential for student success that kids continue to make healthy choices, even in the midst of the chaos of starting a new school year.
Let’s take a look at how the body can positively impact the brain, which in turn can impact many different aspects of school performance.
Students are encouraged to eat nutrient rich foods, such as low fat and fat free dairy, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, and be physically active for 60 minutes each day. It only takes 20 minutes of physical activity for brain function to improve. The outcome: better attention in the classroom, improved attendance and higher test scores.
The outcomes don’t stop there.
When students eat nutrient rich foods their bodies benefit as well. Bones, for example, need calcium and vitamin D. During the teen years, this is crucial since this is the bone-building phase of your child’s life. Calcium, vitamin D and protein not only support bone growth, but also help build the “bone bank” for adulthood.
This time in a child’s life is so important for many reasons, but making sure your bones get adequate nutrition is critical. Some scientists have reviewed lifestyle factors on teens and their beverages of choice and found that as kids pass the age of 6, they are choosing carbonated beverages over nutrient dense beverages like milk. This is concerning because evidence shows that these beverages have been associated with increased bone fractures, reduced bone mineral content, and decreased density and strength. It is hypothesized that these beverages might precipitate urinary loss of calcium. Carbonated beverages are also associated with poor bone health because they replace the more nutrient-dense beverage choice of milk.
As athletes it is important to not only nourish your brain, but also your body, which includes your bones. Good nutrition will also pay off in the classroom. Make sure you are getting enough nutrients throughout your day to nourish your growing body and mind by choosing a wide variety of foods, including 3 servings of dairy each day. Nothing is better than a strong mind to facilitate a great performance.
To learn more please visit Western Dairy Association.