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The Vital Connection Between Nutrition and Learning

Imagine carrying around a two-to-three-pound engine every moment of the day. It relies on the fuel you provide, directly affecting its performance. This engine powers your thoughts, imagination, cognition, learning, and understanding. You are the vehicle, and your brain is the engine where learning happens—and nutrition is its fuel.

As nurturing grounds for future generations, educational institutions play a pivotal role in shaping students’ lives. At The School of Raya, we deeply understand the vital connection between food and the development of young minds. Here are a few key ways nutrition impacts learning and growth.

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Dr. Suneel Thummala
Posted on 07 Sep 2024

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Fueling the Brain: The Role of Nutrients

 

The brain is one of the most energy-demanding organs in the body, requiring a steady supply of nutrients to function optimally. Healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, are crucial for brain health. These fats form the building blocks of cell membranes and play a key role in communication between brain cells, which is essential for memory and learning.


Carbohydrates, particularly complex carbs like those found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, provide the glucose needed for energy. Unlike simple sugars that cause spikes and crashes, complex carbs offer a steady release of energy, keeping students focused and attentive throughout the school day.

The Impact of Micronutrients: Beyond the Basics

 

While macronutrients like fats and carbs are important, micronutrients are equally vital for cognitive development. Iron, for example, is essential for transporting oxygen to the brain. Low iron levels, often found in diets lacking leafy greens or legumes, can lead to fatigue and reduced cognitive performance.


Vitamins such as B6, B12, and folate support the production of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that transmit signals in the brain. Vitamin E, found in nuts and seeds, acts as an antioxidant, protecting brain cells from damage. A diet rich in a variety of fruits, vegetables, meats and eggs, vegetables ensures students get these critical micronutrients, supporting both mental and physical health.

The Gut-Brain Axis: How Digestion Influences Learning

 

Recent research has highlighted the connection between gut health and brain function, known as the gut-brain axis. A balanced diet that includes probiotics (live microorganisms that support good bacteria) from yogurt or fermented foods, along with prebiotics (non-digestible fibers that feed good bacteria) from fibre-rich foods, supports a healthy gut microbiome (the ecosystem ofall microorganisms in the gut). This, in turn, influences mood, stress levels, and even cognitive abilities.

Hydration: The Overlooked Necessity

 

Water is often the unsung hero in discussions about nutrition and learning. Dehydration, even mild, can impair concentration, short-term memory, and mood. Ensuring students are well-hydrated throughout the day is a simple yet effective way to boost cognitive performance.

 

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At The School of Raya, nutrition is an integral part of our educational philosophy. We empower students to make thoughtful food choices by helping them understand how each meal influences their ability to learn and perform. From offering balanced meals in our cafeteria to incorporating nutrition education into science classes, we ensure that healthy eating becomes a foundation for lifelong learning.

 


Learning is a continuous journey. Join us in nourishing young minds with balanced nutrition to optimise their potential. To learn more about our approach to dining, visit our dining section.