To mark Children’s Mental Health Week (3rd – 9th February), our fantastic nutritionist, Leah Corper, visited Surbiton High School to host a Food and Mood lunchtime pop-up, highlighting the importance of supporting young people’s mental health.
Leah shared how certain foods provide essential nutrients for the brain, helping to improve mood, concentration, and energy levels — key for growing minds and busy school days.
Nutrition and diet play a huge role in the mental state of children and young adults. Cultivating good eating habits early on is vital as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
At Lexington Independents, our menus are developed with our in-house team of nutrition and dietetic experts to ensure we support pupils, parents and schools on nurturing healthy eating habits across all age groups.
Here are some of the key takeaways from Leah’s educational session:
Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration. Being dehydrated can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain and make us more prone to feeling angry, anxious and irritated.
Top Tip: The Eatwell Guide recommends that people should aim to drink 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluid a day. Try using a marked water bottle to help you drink regularly throughout the day.
Oily fish, like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are great for brain health because they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
These healthy fats are essential for building brain cells, improving memory, and helping us concentrate better.
Top Tip: Including oily fish in your diet can give your brain the fuel it needs to stay sharp and focused, which is especially important for learning and studying.
Not eating enough nutrient-dense foods can cause a lack of vitamins and minerals, impacting brain function, mood and energy levels.
Top Tip: Try to eat a balanced diet consisting of a variety of different nutrient-rich foods to ensure adequate nourishment.
Caffeine is a stimulant, heightening activity in the brain and nervous system. This can lead to improved mood and help people feel more productive.
Top Tip: Too much caffeine, particularly in people who are not used to it, may result in adverse symptoms such as irritability and headaches
