Teaching is an extremely taxing occupation on both mind and body. In the course of a single day, educators make hundreds of decisions while reacting to the ever-changing needs of each student. It takes a special type of strength to guide and control an entire classroom for five days out of the week. For these reasons, it’s important to fuel your mind and body appropriately. That’s where we come in.
Food Fiction vs Food Fact
Let’s differentiate between Food Fiction and Food Fact, shall we?
Food Fiction: Good nutrition means just eating healthy foods.
Food Fact: True, but only partially. Don’t forget to feed your brain! The brain consumes about 600 calories per day. Food choices that support cardiovascular health i.e. non-starchy vegetables and fruits, as well as healthy oils and fats, a variety of protein sources, and certain whole grains are all good for cognitive function. Eat smart. Be smart.
Food Fiction: Binge-eating carbs provides a reliable source of sustained energy.
Food Fact: Carbohydrates from added sugar and refined starches generally produce an energy surge, but it’s short-lived and quickly transitions to fatigue. Reduce your consumption of foods with added sugar and you’ll notice a difference immediately.
Food Fiction: Fats are bad, no matter what.
Food Fact: Saturated fats, like the ones found in red meats and dairy products, are bad for you. However, natural fats found in healthier food options like seeds, nuts, olive oil, avocado, and white fish are great for you. In fact, natural fats increase the feeling of satiety and help to keep hunger pangs at bay.
Food Fiction: Meat is the best source of protein.
Food Fact: Nutritional researchers are in wide agreement that most Americans rely too heavily on red and processed meats for protein. In addition, a recent World Health Organization report links regular consumption of red and processed meats to an increased risk of cancer. Protect yourself and opt for healthier sources of protein that include seafood, poultry, eggs, beans, peas, nuts, seeds, and soy products.
The Golden Rule
Eat breakfast, always. A healthy meal to start you day could be the difference between a morning of energetic teaching and feeling drowsy by 10 AM. Try a vegetable omelet with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s delicious AND nutritious, the best combo for a successful day in the classroom.
Nutritional information was taken from Edutopia. Edutopia shares evidence and practitioner-based learning strategies that empower you to improve K-12 education.
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