Fuelling Minds and Bodies: Introducing a nutritious meal plan for students

The importance of nutrition extends far beyond physical growth. It plays a critical role in boosting cognitive function, improving concentration, and enhancing overall academic performance. With this understanding, Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg launched a meal plan that has been thoughtfully crafted to meet the varied nutritional needs of its students, ensuring a balance of essential vitamins, minerals, and energy (carbohydrates).

The plan emphasises fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and dairy products, intentionally steering clear of excessive sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed ingredients. Students will now be offered whole grain options like brown rice and whole wheat bread, alongside nutritious legumes, and a colourful selection of fruits and vegetables. These nutrient-dense meals not only support physical growth but also help to instil lifelong healthy eating habits.

Speaking about the new meal plan, Mrs Sangeeta Nistandra, Principal, Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg shares, “The new nutritious meal plan was designed to provide our students with balanced, healthy, and delicious meals throughout the school day and at home also.”

In today’s fast-paced world, we must equip our children with the tools they need to thrive academically and physically, she shared and added that nutrition plays a fundamental role in this equation. “Research consistently shows that a well-balanced diet not only supports physical growth but also enhances cognitive function, concentration, and overall academic performance. With this in mind, our meal plan has been carefully crafted to address the diverse nutritional needs of our students, ensuring they receive the right balance of vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates,” she said.

What does the new meal plan entail?

“Our meal plan features a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and dairy products for which I have worked extensively to ensure that each meal is rich in essential nutrients while being free from excessive sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed ingredients. For instance, our meals will include whole grain options like brown rice and whole wheat bread, proteins, legumes and a wide array of colourful fruits and vegetables. These choices are designed not only to support students’ growth but also to instil lifelong healthy eating habits,” Mrs Nistandra explained.

Benefits of the new meal plan

Every child has individual dietary needs and preferences. “Beyond the immediate health benefits, we believe that introducing our students to a diverse range of foods can foster an appreciation for diverse Indian cultures and cuisines. We hope this exposure will encourage students to explore new tastes and develop a positive relationship with food. Moreover, a nutritious diet is linked to improved mood and behaviour, which can contribute to a more positive and productive learning environment,” the Principal opined.

The new meal plan represents a significant step forward in nurturing our students’ health and academic success. “By ensuring that our students receive nourishing and well-balanced meals, we are not only addressing their immediate needs but also laying the foundation for a healthier future,” Mrs Nistandra said in conclusion.