Healthy Diet Supports Growth and Learning in Primary Students

Oman Experts Explain How Healthy Nutrition Supports Primary School Students

Healthy nutrition plays an important role in the growth, learning and daily activity of primary school students, according to health and education experts in Oman. A balanced diet provides children with the energy and nutrients needed for healthy bones, muscles, brain development and a strong immune system.Dr. Shamsa bint Ahmed Al-Harthi, Head of the School and University Health Programs Department at Oman’s Ministry of Health, said there is a clear connection between the quality of food and a student’s ability to concentrate and learn. She highlighted breakfast as an important meal because it helps provide energy needed by the brain during the school day and can support attention, memory and classroom participation.

Balanced Food Can Support Children’s Daily Energy

Experts said children should have a varied diet containing different food groups, including whole grains, vegetables, fruits, milk and dairy products, eggs, fish, chicken, meat and legumes. These foods provide important nutrients, vitamins and minerals required during the growing years.At the same time, excessive consumption of sugary foods and drinks with low nutritional value may contribute to fluctuations in energy levels and tiredness. Experts said healthier food choices can help children maintain energy and stay active throughout the school day.

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Nutrition and Physical Activity Work Together

Healthy eating and regular physical activity were described as complementary parts of a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet provides protein, vitamins, minerals and energy needed for movement, while physical activity supports fitness, bone and muscle health and healthy weight management.Experts also highlighted the importance of schools in developing healthy habits. School awareness programmes, radio sessions, lectures, competitions and interactive activities can help students turn health information into everyday practices.

Healthy School Canteens Can Influence Food Choices

Khamis bin Hamad Al-Hasani, Assistant Director of Imam Barakat bin Mohammed School for Boys, stressed the importance of creating a school environment that supports healthy choices. He said schools can promote nutrition awareness by monitoring canteens, encouraging healthy food and connecting health education with classroom and extracurricular activities.He also highlighted the role of school canteens in providing safe and varied nutritious options while reducing foods and drinks with limited nutritional value. According to him, the canteen can also become an educational tool that helps students understand healthy food choices.

Family Plays a Key Role in Building Healthy Habits

Samra bint Saeed Al-Maashari, a psychologist at Oman’s Ministry of Social Development, said children’s eating habits are shaped by their family environment, psychological state, relationships and role models. She explained that children often learn through observation and imitation, making parents’ everyday behaviour an important influence.She also emphasized the value of regular but flexible mealtimes. A predictable routine can give children a sense of stability, while involving them in meal preparation and allowing appropriate choices can encourage independence and responsibility.

Healthy Breakfast Can Help Prepare Children for School

Experts said breakfast is not only linked to nutrition but can also become part of a positive morning routine. A calm and organized start to the day may help children transition from home to school more smoothly.The experts stressed that promoting children’s health requires cooperation between families, schools and health authorities. Providing nutritious food, encouraging water consumption, supporting physical activity and creating positive examples at home and school can help children develop healthier habits that continue as they grow.