What we eat each day has an extraordinary impact on our lives. It not only affects our vulnerability to diseases over time, but it also influences our physical and cognitive abilities, as well as our emotional state. Healthy food choices matter. They empower us to perform and achieve at work and school and enable us to enjoy our leisure time more fully.
From 9 to 15 October, the Department of Health is joining forces with key partners to increase awareness that nutritious food can impact not only on physical health but mental well-being too. The collaborators and other interested parties will promote thewith the aim of reaching South Africans who don’t necessarily focus on healthy eating and healthy lifestyles. The National Department of Health points out that poor food and drink choices often start in early childhood.
UNICEF South Africa, one of the partners in National Nutrition Week 2023, has an ongoing focus on the impact of healthy eating and physical activity in the lives of South African children. Lea Castro, UNICEF’S Nutrition Officer says, “Our most recent research showed that schools have a critical role to play in promoting healthy lifestyles and healthy eating, and empowering children to feel good with food.