research about why k-12 should eat healthy in schools

Date: 04/05/2024 To: Quincy Norwood From: Mina Kouza Subject of my paper: Promoting Eating healthy Habits to K-12 Curriculum My (working) thesis: Healthy eating should be introduced into the K-12 Curriculum in the US because it does not only help kids’ physical well-being but also improves their memory, academic performance, and overall student success. Summary of argument: Introduction to problem – A concerning increase in the rates of obesity in children and bad eating habits among K–12 students present serious risks to their health and their academic achievement. A student’s ability to learn and overall well-being can be impacted by several health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, all of which are increased by poor nutrition. The K–12 curriculum can address these issues and encourage kids’ wellness through the promotion of healthy eating habits. Intended audience: Parents, educators, policymakers, and healthcare professionals. Reasons to support claim: Improved cognitive function: For the best possible brain development and cognitive function, a balanced diet full of essential minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients is required. Studies show that eating healthy food improves focus, memory recall, and problem-solving abilities, which in turn improves students’ academic achievement. Prevention of chronic diseases: Teaching students about the importance of healthy eating habits while being young can help prevent the beginning of chronic diseases later in life, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. By promoting nutritious food choices and educating students about the risks associated with unhealthy eating patterns, schools will allow them to make wise decisions about their diet and lifestyle. Positive impact on behavior and mood: There’s a connection between mental and emotional wellness. Blood sugar levels are regulated by balanced meals, which can help control mood and avoid behavioral issues or mood swings in the classroom. Schools can establish a positive learning environment that encourages positive social relationships and academic engagement by encouraging kids to eat healthy meals. Development of lifelong healthy habits: By including cooking training and nutrition education in the curriculum, schools can provide children with the skills and information they need to make healthy food decisions for the rest of their life. Early nutrition education creates lifelong habits that support health and well-being. Types of sources: Peer-reviewed studies, books, and instructional materials on nutrition education, preventing childhood obesity, and the effect of diet on academic performance will all be used in this study. Interviews with nutritionists, instructors, and medical professionals will also provide insight into useful strategies for bringing a healthy diet into the K–12 curriculum. Refutation of Counterargument: There are many who argue that adding nutrition education to the curriculum takes away from the amount of time students spend learning important subjects. However, research shows that kids in good health are more adept learners, and the benefits of nutrition education outweigh the obvious decrease in class time. In addition, schools can promote health education and reinforce academic concepts by including dietary principles into already-existing curriculum.