This National Nutrition Week, be inspired by good food and good company
Are you striking a good balance with what you’re eating from the recommended five food groups? Even if you’re aware of what’s healthy and what’s not so good for you, we understand that being a student involves lots of commitments, and sometimes it’s just easier (and even cheaper!) to fill up on processed or takeaway foods.
We all know how important it is to have a healthy diet. This National Nutrition Week (14–20 October) – the annual awareness campaign run by Nutrition Australia – is all about Inspiring a connected and nourished Australia.
Food brings us closer together
This year for National Nutrition Week – and as we encourage everyone to reach out for support during Mental Health Month – we’re exploring and celebrating the many ways that people, families, communities and organisations across the country can be connected and nourished through good food.
Sharing a meal or even some treats with others is a universally treasured ritual, and can help facilitate storytelling, deep interpersonal connections and growth, cultural traditions, plus create fond memories. So while we all have to snack on the go, make an effort to sit down and chat over a meal with others when you can for a range of health benefits!
There’s also no better time to increase your brain power than in the middle of the end-of-unit assessment (EoUA) period, so you should also focus on optimising your nutritional intake ASAP. Your grades will thank you!
The right nutrition boosts your brainpower
A range of dietary nutrients are critical to fueling the structure and function of your brain. Think of your brain as a car engine – the better the fuel, the better it will run. Eating food with lots of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants nourishes the brain and protects it from oxidative stress – which can damage cells and subsequently decrease brain efficiency.
Better cognition has been associated with the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in olive oil, nuts, fruit, vegetables and fish, while a higher intake of processed foods has been associated with reduced functioning of the brain.
Looking for ways to eat well on a budget? See our recent article featuring awesome hacks to save money at the supermarket!
Want more food inspiration?
Take a look at the other articles in our content series leading up to National Nutrition Week, where we explored optimal nutrition, supermarket saving hacks, Nourished@Deakin recipes, plus healthy meals and snacks to fuel your end-of-unit revision!
- Remember to also check out our recently revamped online healthy eating hub, Nourished @ Deakin, at any time! It’s packed with heaps of healthy meal and snack ideas. Thanks to all of you who shared your recipe with us in our recent competition too! The competition is now closed – congrats to our winners! Megan Liang, Richi Nama, Grace Johnson.
- Head to the Deakin Community Garden at Burwood to pick some free fresh produce – you’re also invited this Tuesday 15 October from 11am–12.30pm to try some yummy Lemon Balm tea! Register now
Enjoy the wonderful world of food, and good luck with your end-of-unit assessments!
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