Healthy Foods for Better Learning
The old saying “you are what you eat” may be more correct than most people think. Some foods have been considered to be brain foods while others are considered to be junk.
Now you can choose healthy foods for better learning.
One of the things to remember when it comes to education and nutrition is the importance of eating breakfast. Research has been conducted for many years and the results continue to show how children who eat breakfast on a regular basis consistently score higher on standardized tests. They also exhibit better classroom behavior and experience hyperactivity less often. Children who eat breakfast each school day are also less likely to feel sleepy in class.
Healthy Breakfast for Learning
A healthy breakfast might include an egg, a slice of whole wheat bread with peanut butter, a piece of their favorite fruit, and a glass of ice cold low-fat milk. You can substitute a piece of lean meat, 100% fruit juice, and whole grain cereals to give them variety. The fiber and protein in the meal will help your child remain focused and keep them satisfied until they are able to eat lunch.
Some children adore sugary cereal for breakfast but that’s really not a good choice. Neither is pancakes made with white flour and sticky sweet syrup. These will give your child a sugar rush but will also cause them to crash later in the day. Whole grain crackers, nuts, cheese and fruit can be sent with your child if they need a snack before lunch.
Healthy Lunches
In the past, school cafeterias have been known to provide lunches which weren’t very healthy. Too many hamburgers, French fries, and pizza have been served to school age children for far too long. Thankfully school dieticians are now offering healthy foods for better learning experiences and to help the children learn to make better food choices.
Eating healthier foods at lunchtime can make such an improvement in a child’s behavior for the remaining part of the school day. It’s taken a good bit of convincing to get schools to make the necessary changes, however, and they’ll tell you it wasn’t easy. Offering healthy salads, sandwiches made on whole grain breads, and soups can also help your child feel fuller when they return home.
After-School Snacks
After school your child may want a snack. Don’t deprive them, rather give them healthy choices such as carrot sticks, celery, fresh fruit, whole nuts, or yogurt. Whatever you choose to offer, be sure they won’t become too full and not want to have dinner.
Research has proven time and time again how important it is for children to eat healthy foods for better learning. This includes eating healthy breakfast foods which will give your child energy and the ability to focus, and will ensure they have a great day.
photo credit: Pink Sherbet Photography
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