17/07/2025, THU
Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet is essential for the overall development and well-being of students. Healthy food, rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fibers, plays a vital role in boosting immunity, improving brain function, increasing energy levels, and keeping the body strong and active. It helps students stay alert, focused in class, and perform better in academics and extracurricular activities. On the other hand, unhealthy food—such as chips, soft drinks, chocolates, and deep-fried items—is high in sugar, oil, salt, and empty calories. Regular consumption of these junk foods may lead to obesity, diabetes, heart problems, and poor digestion, even at a young age.
Many students have begun recognizing these effects. For example, Satwika from Class 6 says, “When I eat fruits, I feel active in class. But after eating chips or drinking soda, I feel sleepy and dull.” Similarly, R.Sanvi from Class 7 mentions, “One can of soft drink has more than 150 calories and offers no nutrition. I’ve started drinking lemon water instead, and it keeps me fresh.” These observations highlight the impact of food choices on daily life and academic performance.
To build awareness, it is important to understand the calorie content in common junk foods. A regular burger contains 500–600 calories, French fries have around 350 calories per 100 grams, and one chocolate bar contains nearly 300 calories. Even one scoop of ice cream can add up to 250 calories to your diet. Despite their taste, these items contribute very little nutritional value.
Encouraging students to choose fruits, vegetables, homemade snacks, and sufficient water intake instead of oily, sugary items can lead to lifelong healthy habits. As the famous saying goes, “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food” – a reminder that what we eat greatly impacts how we live. Schools, families, and students must work together to promote healthy eating and an active lifestyle for a better future.