Nutrition awareness is an
essential part of health education.
This learning takes place
during meals as a result of the foods provided. It happens throughout the day
as well — at play, in the classroom, and during sports.
The meals children are served,
and the skills they acquire at a young age, help to set lifelong eating
patterns. That’s why it is important to teach good eating habits.
Make mealtime a pleasant and
relaxed experience. Offer a variety of foods, prepared in different ways.
It makes good nutrition sense
and it makes meals and snacks more interesting.
Regular physical activity is
also important for good health. It burns calories, helps with weight control,
and is important in preventing some chronic diseases.
When it comes to feeding young
people, try to choose foods that are lower in fat and free of saturated fats.
For example, cook with lean
ground meat when you barbecue.
Serve sandwiches on whole wheat
bread. Add grapes or raisins to tuna, chicken, or turkey salad and stuff it
into pita bread for variety.
Serve bean tacos, burritos, or
chili for alternate sources of protein.
Well-nourished, healthy
children achieve better in school. And these practices can help set the pattern
for a lifetime of good nutrition.
