Students Learn About Nutrition at All-School Meeting

To kick off Cardigan’s Wellness Week, Director of Dining Services Joe Hines P’20 invited nutritionist Lisa Jackson to speak at our all-school meeting this past Monday.

In an interactive discussion, Ms. Jackson spoke with the boys about the importance of balanced nutrition, explaining that it is essential to eat a well-rounded diet to support physical health, cognitive development, and focus in school. Ms. Jackson introduced the key food groups—fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy—and discussed how each contributes to the boys’ growth and energy needs.

Ms. Jackson then explained the difference between macronutrients and micronutrients, emphasizing that while macronutrients, like carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and water, are needed in larger amounts to provide energy, micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are required to help our bodies perform various tasks.

Ms. Jackson also emphasized the importance of a variety in protein sources, asking the boys if they knew of sources other than meat and fish. Several boys volunteered that plant-based options like beans, seeds, tofu, and nuts are also excellent sources of protein, and Ms. Jackson encouraged students to mix and match protein sources to diversify their nutrient intake. To help students achieve a balanced diet, Ms. Jackson shared practical strategies, such as eating from at least three food groups during a meal and at least two for a snack. She also underscored the importance of dairy products, like milk and yogurt, for calcium and bone strength.

Ms. Jackson stressed the importance of drinking water and staying hydrated, as hydration aids in maintaining energy, focus, and recovery. She closed her presentation by stressing the importance of nutrition for athletics and shared various strategies for pre-game meals for optimal performance.