When the Stomach Is Empty, So Is the Mind
Have you ever gone to school without breakfast?
That groggy, unfocused feeling? Unfortunately, millions of children around the world start their day like that—every single morning.
Sure, we use our brains to learn, but what fuels the brain? Energy, in the form of food.
The saying "education is a privilege of the well-fed" isn't just a clever phrase—it’s a reality.
Let’s take a closer look at the vital link between hunger and education.
1. Poor Nutrition, Poor Concentration
The brain consumes about 20% of the body's daily energy.
When students don't eat properly, their concentration and memory take a hit—and academic performance inevitably drops.
- UK researchers found that children with proper nutrition performed significantly better in cognitive tests.
- WHO data shows a clear gap in academic achievement between students who receive school meals and those who don’t.
- Korean studies reveal that skipping breakfast leads to higher academic stress and emotional difficulties.
2. A School Meal Is More Than Just a Meal
School meals aren’t just about eating—they’re about opening doors to learning, safeguarding health, and leveling the playing field.
3. What School Meals Look Like Around the World
The situation differs by country, but one thing is universal: every child deserves to learn on a full stomach.
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