Health experts urge balanced nutrition for students returning to school

As the new school year begins, health experts and the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) are emphasizing the importance of nutrition, hydration, and preventative health for students.

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT) 2020-2023 indicates that fewer than half of Mexican students consume adequate amounts of fruit, less than 30% meet vegetable recommendations, and only 1.4% meet legume intake requirements. Nutritionist María Fernanda Bores suggests that school lunchboxes should be used to introduce variety, including proteins, carbohydrates, and fiber to improve dietary habits.

Dr. Hortensia Vega Vega of IMSS recommends that parents verify their children's vaccination schedules and monitor potential vision or hearing issues. To support academic performance, she advises ensuring children get at least eight hours of sleep and maintain proper hydration, suggesting a daily intake of one to one and a half liters of water, especially during physical activity or high temperatures.