Researchers found that eating healthy food and adequate sleep will help children to perform better in school.
Krista Casazza assistant professor in the Department of Nutrition Sciences explained that when kids go to school without eating their breakfast, their cognitive function can be affected. Casazza suggested that kids should start the day with fruits, proteins and whole grains and should avoid sugary cereals. If the kids do need to eat healthy at dinner then parents should offer healthy choices like yogurt, fruits and veggies or baked chips. Also children should drink water instead of soda as it lacks nutritional value.
Kristin Avis, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Pediatrics Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine said that children need a good night`s sleep for their overall school performance.
“Lack of sleep can lead to problems with attention and memory in the classroom, affect impulse control and mood regulation lead to anxiety and even depression,” Avis said.
Avis said kids ages 6-12 should get nine hours sleep nightly as should adolescents ages 13-18, but typically they average little more than seven hours per night.
Avis said that catching up on lost sleep on the weekend can make matters worse and recommended a consistent bedtime seven days a week