Balanced nutrition is important during childhood

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nazife Hürer Bulunç, Assistant Chair of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics of Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Health Sciences, stated that there are  some changes in children's nutrition habits during the summer holidays, but once schools  open, adequate and balanced nutrition gains importance  to ensure children develop physically and mentally as well as succeed academically.

Pointing out that one of the most important problems experienced during the summer holiday is skipping breakfast, Bulunç reminded that breakfast plays a big role in child development. 

Pointing out that there is a gap of approximately 8-12 hours between breakfast and dinner, Bulunç said, "According to research, children who start the day with a healthy breakfast containing various nutrients demonstrate better school success, do not have concentration problems, their school performance including their physical performance lasts longer, and their muscle performance increases." 

Emphasizing that a good breakfast positively affects children's learning process and brain development, Bulunç noted that many studies have proven that the rate of obesity is lower in children who have breakfast.

Bulunç also pointed out the importance of weight balance in children and said, "Children can keep their body weight within healthy ranges doing adequate physical activity by eating adequate and balanced meals."

Reminding that obese children are at the risk of developing diabetes or cardiovascular diseases in later ages, Bulunç said, “Healthy body weight should be monitored starting from childhood. Portion control helps consume appropriate amounts of food to meet children’s nutritional needs.”

Bulunç recommended that consuming three main meals and two snacks a day are vital in child growth and development in order to have a high level of physical and mental performance, and said, "It is important to pay attention to food diversity in these meals."