Parents urged to prioritise nutritious lunchboxes for children’s health

Doha, Qatar: With the start of the new school year after the long summer break, the importance of daily habits practiced by students during their scho...

Doha, Qatar: With the start of the new school year after the long summer break, the importance of daily habits practiced by students during their school day comes to the forefront—chief among them is having breakfast at school. This meal is not just food; it is a key factor in boosting energy and activity, while helping to prevent lethargy, obesity, and diabetes.

In this regard, dietician Hissa Al Naemi, Manager of Dietetics at the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), highlighted a set of important health standards that parents should follow when preparing their children’s school lunchboxes, to ensure better health and higher academic performance. She stressed that the lunchbox is not merely a daily meal, but rather an investment in the health of the next generation. By committing to healthy standards in preparing school meals, parents help raise healthier students who can achieve better academically, while avoiding health risks that may affect their educational journey.

A healthy, balanced meal

Al Naemi pointed out that the type of foods students eat plays a direct role in preventing obesity and diabetes—especially type 2 diabetes, which is closely linked to excess weight. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that meals are balanced and nutritious, providing the energy needed for concentration and learning.

She explained that an ideal meal should include a variety of food groups such as: