HEALTH REPORT
Back to school for better health
Jumping back into a busy school routine does not have to mean the usual onslaught of kids’ health hassles. Here’s how to stay ahead.
Fortify with the right foods A child’s nutrient needs depend on their body composition (relative amount of body fat, muscle and bone) and level of physical activity. In an ideal world, children and teens who eat a variety of healthful foods should receive all the nutrients necessary for energy, stamina and normal growth. However, in the real world, children and teens may be ill, distracted, or just plain fussy eaters, which can have consequences for their ability to perform at school, as well as their health in adulthood. The most important nutrients for normal
• Iron: Especially important for girls who are menstruating, as they are at risk of iron-deficiency anaemia. Iron can be found in meat, poultry, eggs, whole grains, and vegetables like spinach.
• Vitamin B12: Critical for various bodily functions, and its deficiency can be a concern for those on vegetarian or vegan diets. Supplements might be required to ensure adequate intake of vitamins B6, B12, and folate. • Vitamin C: Essential for immune function, skin health, and iron
growth and development include: • Calcium: Vital for bone health,
absorption. Found in citrus fruits, berries, peppers, and leafy greens. • Zinc: Important for immune function, wound healing, and growth. Sources include meat, shellfish, legumes, seeds, and nuts.
particularly in teens who are developing about half of their adult skeletal mass. Sources include dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, and non-dairy options such as chia seeds, sesame seeds, almonds, figs, barley grass, and ocean plants.
• Essential Fatty Acids: Key for cognitive health, including memory and reducing 'brain fog'. Poor nutrition, especially lacking essential fatty acids and B-group vitamins, can impact these cognitive functions. • Vitamin D: Necessary for bone health and immune function. For children who don’t consume much oily fish, cheese, egg yolks, or meat, and have limited sun exposure, a vitamin D supplement might be needed.
Go Vita loves … Where dietary intake is inadequate try a convenient liquid supplement such as Brauer Kids Liquid range ; or a convenient powder supplement such as Nutra Organics Brekkie Hero .
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ISSUE 70 • 2024
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