What topic should the school nurse focus on for students aged 3 and above to promote healthy eating?

Focusing on vitamin D for students aged 3 and above is essential for promoting healthy eating because vitamin D plays a critical role in supporting the growth and development of children. It aids in calcium absorption, which is vital for building strong bones and teeth. As children grow, their bodies require adequate amounts of vitamin D to ensure proper skeletal development and to prevent deficiencies that can lead to health issues such as rickets.

Furthermore, many children do not get sufficient vitamin D from sunlight or dietary sources. Therefore, educating students about the importance of vitamin D and its food sources, such as fortified dairy products, fatty fish, and egg yolks, can help foster better dietary habits and contribute to overall health and wellbeing.

In contrast, while other nutrients like calcium, protein, and fiber are also important for a balanced diet, the role of vitamin D is particularly crucial during early childhood development. Adequately addressing vitamin D can lay the foundation for long-term health, making it a key area for school health initiatives focused on nutrition.