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Benefits of nutrition on mental health and academic performance

Benefits of nutrition on mental health and academic performance

Nutrition has a significant impact on mental health which has a swell effect on the academic performance of youth. Studies have established a strong relationship between nutrition and mental health. The result of stable health is improved productivity and great performance which is a necessity in academic life.

If you’ve been wondering how to improve your academic performance, here’s what you should know:

Nutrition is an important factor in fostering mental wellness. All-important nutrient-rich diets guard against deficits, which can exacerbate mental health issues. Weakening performances at school, work or other social engagements are associated with poor mental health. This has made nutrition a concern for youths in higher education institutions.

For young adults in higher education institutions, food choices, mental health and academic prosperity are inseparable. A deficiency in any harms the two others which can be noticeable. And although mental health is a general term given to conditions that reduce the capacity of a person, it is seen in problems like anxiety, aggression, depression, paranoia, excessive stress, behavior disorder, e. t. c.

According to Tewari, Pande & Pande (2022) in their research to understand the systematic relationship between nutrition and mental health, they were able to find out that “The quality of diet determines the status of mental health and may mediate linkages to depression and anxiety.” More so, they also identified that a balanced diet is likely to help all individuals who are normal, at risk for mental disorders, undergoing treatment, or at the rehabilitation stage.”

These findings are just a few out of a myriad of similar studies, students should be able to understand that a quality diet is important for their mental health and that is especially needed for excellent academic performances. In this context, poor nutrition doesn’t necessarily mean it’s caused by food insecurity but poor attitude towards a properly balanced diet.

For students, small changes are easier to maintain than trying to overhaul the whole diet pattern. So, it’s a slow and steady process. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, nuts and seeds have proven to be a great combination of minerals and vitamins for better health. Most importantly the reduction of sugar and processed foods is vital in the journey for better health. A daily meal plan is very necessary to make academic plans successful.

Again, academics require plenty of restful sleep and regular physical activity for the best results.

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