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Ky. (WBKO) -As students head back to school during the final weeks of summer, nutrition experts and school officials say the lingering heat can affect student energy and focus — and what kids eat and wear can make a difference
Warren County Schools nutrition director, Kelly Holt, said the district’s cafeteria program is built around making sure students are prepared to learn each day
“Our goal every single day whenever we walk into our schools and our school cafeterias is to make sure that kids get the nutrition that they need so that they can learn and grow and become the best that they can be in their lives,” Holt said
Holt said both breakfast and lunch play a role in keeping students on track throughout the school day
“It’s very important for kids to start their day off with a great breakfast so they have energy and nutrition balance they can learn,” Holt said. “And then also it’s very, very important for them to get a great lunch that day so they can continue on that nutritional path throughout their school day and through the rest of their day.”
Different foods provide different nutrients and can help keep minds alert and bodies hydrated. Holt said the district serves fresh fruits and vegetables daily, many of which have high water content
“Strawberries are 88% to 90% water,” Holt said
Holt also said the district also prioritizes protein in its meal planning to help students maintain focus in the classroom
“We have balanced meals, whether that be at breakfast or lunch, so that whenever they’re in the classroom, that they can stay at a stable balance and be able to pay attention and absorb all the wonderful things that’s happening in our classrooms,” Holt said
Clothing choices can also affect how students handle the heat. Darker-colored clothing has a lower albedo — meaning it absorbs more sunlight and heat — while lighter-colored clothing reflects sunlight and can help keep students cooler during warm back-to-school months
This <a href="https://healthylife7.com/kickstart-your-new-school-year-routine-with-10-beauty-and-wellness-essentials/" title="Kickstart your new school year routine with 10 beauty and wellness essentials”>school year, Warren County Schools is participating in the Community Eligibility Provision, which allows students to receive breakfast and lunch at no cost each day
The district’s nutrition and dining program has also received a first-place Next Gen Innovation Award, a national recognition for schools finding new ways to serve students. Warren County Schools said the award reflects the work staff put in daily to care for students
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