Nutrition for Virtual Learners

With resumption of virtual learning, most kids are either not able to maintain their lockdown routine (since there is no routine) so we see either misbalance of meals or binge eating in few.

It becomes tough for such young minds to understand the importance of self-discipline. Virtual learning can actually get more disciplined, if the child is mentored to follow a fixed, specific nutrition schedule ensuring loop less supply of nutrient, steadying growth markers and teach them eating as per the situation and requirements.

Kids nutrition is apparently most imperative part to assessed and looked forward to ensure virtuous immunity with optimal growth and development. Paying heed to nutrition; at this phase of growth and development becomes extremely important and critical, the standing of right and precise nutrition in these footing years can influence growth and development in young children.

A few may throw tantrums; few may prefer skipping meals all together.

Since macronutrient like protein, is an integral part of wear and tear of body tissues and stand superior due growth periods like childhood.

In this write up, we are going to find ways of feeding protein rich meals in between the virtual learning sessions to improvise immune response, better conduct and focus.

1. Starting with high protein breakfast: - Whilst under lockdown, just before the virtual school sessions, nutrition source both on qualitative and quantitative terms should be watched, specially carbohydrates and proteins. A scrambled egg or omelet with some side veggies or paneer paratha, bean wrap can be served as breakfast. Considering the age group, where most of children are picky eaters, small portions in rotation with the core ingredients can prove to be effective.

2. Know the importance of having fillers: - It is difficult to make children sit for lengthy e-learning sessions. In between the small breaks introducing small filler like GRD Bix high protein diskettes or protein powder with milk would lead to better focus and concentration and also keep them satiated.

3. Check on calcium intake: - Calcium rich foods increase the absorption of proteins in the body. Introducing calcium rich foods alongside will help in development of proper skeletal functions. Calcium rich green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, ragi and milk products can be incorporated.

4. Small and frequent meals: - Due to lack in physical activity levels, it is advisable to break meals into smaller portion to avoid dumping of food into a gastric cavity. Breaking the meals into smaller portions, actually helps in efficient digestion and stabilizes blood sugar levels (which should be factored considering hyperactivity in most children).

5. Liquid protein to be geared up: - Such small children are finickier, when it comes to solid food consumption, blending protein powder with milk or giving protein rich soups in between can actually turn out to be a ‘no hassle feeding’ option. Protein loaded liquids are more feasible and smart choices to align protein requirements.

Virtual learning can apparently bring an unforeseen change in eating schedule. Macronutrient like proteins, if used wisely can impart effective growth and development at this crucial period of growth and maintenance of body functions.

If determined, this phase of new normal, can be essentially used to inculcate healthy eating habits supporting growth and maintenance. Since during this phase of pandemic spike, consumption of junk and processed food is almost insignificant; this period can be advantageous to foster young heads about importance of clean and healthy eating.