Wellness+in+the+Classroom

The Learning Connection Poor nutrition and physical inactivity not only lead to overweight and obesity, but they also have a negative impact on readiness to learn and academic achievement. A growing body of evidence is showing the connection between good nutrition, physical activity, healthy body weight, and student achievement. Nutrition and Academics • In a study of 4th graders, students with the lowest protein in their diets had the lowest achievement scores. • Children with iron deficiency anemia have shortened attention spans, irritability, fatigue, and difficulty with concentration. As a result, they do poorly in vocabulary, reading, and other tests. • Even moderate undernutrition (not getting enough food or not getting enough nutrients) can have lasting effects. It can negatively affect

cognitive development and school performance. • Participation in a school breakfast program improves academic, behavioral, and emotional functioning and leads to increased math grades and lower absenteeism. • Children with poor nutrition during the brain’s most formative years score much lower on vocabulary, reading comprehension, arithmetic, and general knowledge tests.