# Nutritional and wellness guidance for students in Mexico

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nutritional-guidance-for-students-in-mexico
> Updated: 2026-09-01T02:30:44.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 4.

Health experts and the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) continue to advocate for balanced diets, hydration, and preventative health measures as students return to school. These recommendations aim to address significant dietary gaps identified by the National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT) 2020-2023, which found that fewer than half of Mexican students consume adequate fruit, less than 30% meet vegetable recommendations, and only 1.4% meet legume intake requirements.

To improve these habits, nutritionist María Fernanda Bores suggests using school lunchboxes to introduce variety, including proteins, carbohydrates, and fiber. Officials recommend snacks like seasonal fruits, vegetables, and simple preparations such as chicken or tuna sandwiches, while prioritizing plain water over sugary drinks and limiting ultra-processed foods. 

In Morelos, health authorities including the Hospital de la Niñez Morelense (HNM) and IMSS Bienestar have expanded these guidelines to include infection prevention. To mitigate respiratory and gastrointestinal risks in classrooms, officials emphasize frequent handwashing, daily bathing, and regular teeth brushing. 

Medical preparedness remains a priority. Dr. Hortensia Vega Vega of IMSS and regional authorities advise parents to verify vaccination schedules, monitor vision or hearing issues, and review chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes with schools. Additionally, experts stress the importance of lifestyle habits, such as ensuring children receive at least eight hours of sleep to support concentration and monitoring emotional well-being during the transition to new school routines.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-01: Morelos health officials issue back-to-school wellness guidelines

Health officials in Morelos recommend hygiene, vaccination, proper nutrition, and regular sleep to protect children from illness during the return to school.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/morelos-health-officials-issue-back-to-school-wellness-guidelines

### 2026-08-31: Health experts urge balanced nutrition for students returning to school

Health experts and IMSS urge parents to prioritize balanced nutrition, hydration, and vaccination schedules for students as the new school year begins.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/health-experts-urge-balanced-nutrition-for-students-returning-to-school

### 2026-08-24: Health experts recommend nutritious diets for back-to-school season

Health experts and IMSS recommend balanced diets and hydration for students returning to school, suggesting nutritious snacks and corn tortillas as practical energy sources.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/health-experts-recommend-nutritious-diets-for-back-to-school-season

### 2026-08-01: Chile school snack guidance promotes balanced sandwiches for students

Chile food expert Marcela Moreno advises families to use protein‑rich, high‑fiber sandwiches for school snacks, promoting sustained energy and healthier habits.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/chile-school-snack-guidance-promotes-balanced-sandwiches-for-students

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Cite as: Nutritional and wellness guidance for students in Mexico. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nutritional-guidance-for-students-in-mexico