The ABCs of Back-to-School Nutrition: A Balanced Diet and the Importance of Supplements

As families in Baldwin County gear up for the back-to-school season, ensuring children have a balanced diet is vital to their academic success and overall health. The equation is simple – good nutrition equals better learning. This idea is supported by a report from the Frontiers in Human Neuroscience which states that dietary behaviors influence academic performance. Another study published in the journal Appetite also suggests that regular consumption of a balanced breakfast is associated with improved cognitive function in school-aged children.

Why is Nutrition Important for School-Aged Children?

A balanced diet not only supports physical growth but also enhances mental development. It ensures adequate energy for children to focus and engage in school activities, boosting their academic performance. This link between nutrition and cognitive function means that what your child eats can significantly impact their academic success.

What Makes a Balanced Diet?

A balanced diet includes the right proportions of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. It should incorporate various foods to ensure a broad spectrum of nutrients. This includes whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.

Eating Right for School: Quick and Healthy Recipes

We know that mornings can be a rush. But with some planning, you can whip up quick, nutritious meals and snacks. Here are some easy recipes:

• Overnight Oats: Mix oats with milk or dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk and let them soak overnight. In the morning, top with fruits, nuts, or seeds.
• Veggie Scramble: Sauté chopped veggies (bell peppers, spinach, tomatoes) and scramble with eggs. Serve with whole-grain toast or a gluten-free option if you prefer.
• Nut Butter-Banana Wrap: Spread nut butter on a whole-grain or gluten-free tortilla, add a peeled banana and roll it up for a quick, portable breakfast. Be mindful of any potential nut allergies, and feel free to substitute with a nut-free spread if needed.

Lunchboxes can also be fun and healthy:

• Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with chopped veggies, grilled chicken, and a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.
• Veggie Pasta: Toss whole-grain or gluten-free pasta with tomato sauce, cooked vegetables, shredded cheese or a dairy-free cheese substitute.
• Turkey-Avocado Wrap: Fill a whole-grain or gluten-free tortilla with turkey slices, avocado, lettuce, and a dash of mayo.

The Role of Supplements

Even with a balanced diet, children might not always get all the necessary nutrients, especially with picky eaters or dietary restrictions. This is where supplements come in.

Multivitamins like L’il Critters™ Gummy Vites™, which we offer for free at Pure Life Pharmacy, can bridge the nutritional gap. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), dietary supplements can boost children’s health and immunity when appropriately used. You can read more about our Free Children’s Vitamins program here.

Our Elderberry Powdered Drink Mix is another excellent supplement for your child’s immune health. Elderberry extract has been studied for its potential to support immune function. In addition to elderberry, our mix also includes Vitamin C and Vitamin D, both vital for immunity, as per the NIH’s fact sheets on Vitamin C and Vitamin D.

As we approach the new school year, let’s ensure our children are well-nourished for their best performance. It’s a team effort – parents, schools, communities, and your friendly neighborhood pharmacy. We at Pure Life Pharmacy are here to help with free children’s vitamins and affordable, high-quality supplements. Here’s to a year of health, happiness, and academic success! Remember, you can always refer a friend and enjoy benefits through our Refer-a-friend program.

References

The Importance of Good Nutrition: This page from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health can support the broad statement that good nutrition is vital to overall health.

The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine report: This report establishes the link between nutrition and academic performance.

The Appetite study: This study can be used to reinforce the importance of a balanced breakfast.

Healthy Eating for a Healthy Weight: This page from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discusses the importance of a balanced diet.

The NIH’s page on Dietary Supplements for Children: This page provides information on when and why supplements may be appropriate for children.

The NIH’s fact sheet on Vitamin C: This fact sheet provides information on the benefits of Vitamin C.

The NIH’s fact sheet on Vitamin D: This fact sheet provides information on the benefits of Vitamin D.