The Effects of Nutrients on Students Brain Functions

The Effects of Nutrients on Students Brain Functions 

By : Rosfita Irma

What are nutrients?

Nutrients are substances included in food that give us the energy we need to grow, repair, and perform other bodily functions. These nutrients are separated into two groups: macronutrients, which the body needs in big quantities, and micronutrients, which it needs in smaller amounts.

These are the nutrients that humans require in the greatest quantities; the word "macro" denotes enormous. Nuts and avocados are examples of foods high in lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates, respectively. Potatoes are also high in carbs. Every macronutrient provides a certain quantity of energy. The number of calories in a food type allows us to determine how much energy it contains. An energy unit is a calorie.

Micronutrients are a class of necessary nutrients that include vitamins and minerals. "Micro-" denotes small; modest quantities of micronutrients are required by humans. Vitamins A, C, and D are some examples of the names given to vitamins. Since vitamins include the element carbon, they are organic substances. Minerals from the soil or environment include calcium and iron.

Eating habits and academic achievement

According to a study that was published in the "Journal of School Health," students who frequently ate fruits, vegetables, and whole grains performed better academically than their counterparts who ate less nutrient-dense diets. This included higher grades and test scores. Similarly, the World Health Organization (WHO) found that increased cognitive function and academic achievement in school-aged children and adolescents are positively correlated with proper nutrition, based on a meta-analysis of data.

Additionally, longitudinal research has yielded important insights into the long-term impacts of dietary habits on academic performance. In the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), for instance, eating patterns formed during childhood and adolescence were found to have a considerable impact on scholastic attainment in later years. The study followed a cohort of children from birth to adolescence.

Furthermore, research on intervention initiatives that enhance school lunch programs or offer nutrition instruction has shown benefits for student achievement. A randomized controlled experiment, for example, that was carried out in American schools revealed that offering healthier meal options to students improved their academic performance, as seen by higher test scores and lower absenteeism.

Techniques to Enhance Students' Nutrition

A comprehensive strategy involving the combined efforts of families, schools, and communities as well as individual efforts is needed to improve student nutrition. Teens are able to form healthy eating habits that promote their development by putting into practice doable tactics.

Useful Guidance for Learners and Their Families:

1. Promote balanced meals by stressing the value of eating a range of foods from each dietary group, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats.

2. Reduce your intake of processed foods: Limit your use of highly processed foods such as packaged snacks, fast meals, and sugary drinks that are heavy in sugar, bad fats, and sodium.

3. Arrange and cook your meals: Plan and prepare meals with your teenagers to give them a sense of accountability and control over what they eat. Instruct students in fundamental cooking techniques and promote the use of fresh foods.

4. Practice portion control by educating teenagers about sensible serving sizes to help them develop mindful eating practices and avoid overindulging.

5. Remain hydrated: Stress the value of staying hydrated throughout the day and cut out on sugar-filled beverages. When you're nibbling, pay attention: promote healthy foods and drinks. 

In a nutshell, if we want our kids to perform better at school, let’s get them consuming better food and drinks, too.

Resources:

https://macbrain.org/nutritions-impact-on-adolescent-brain-function-and-academic-performance/ 

https://byjus.com/biology/nutrients/

https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/nutrient/