Nutrition

Dear Families

Salamun Alaykum

May Allah bless you and your families. When we look at children holistically, we know that nutrition plays a vital role in not only sustaining life but also in nourishing the body, mind, and soul. What our children eat directly affects their energy levels, learning abilities, behavior, and overall well-being. That is why this year we added this new policy in our family handbook:

No Artificial Dyes

Artificial food dyes have been associated with various health concerns, including potential links to hyperactivity, allergic reactions, and behavioral issues in children. By eliminating artificial dyes from our school environment, we aim to mitigate these risks and provide a safer space for our students to thrive. We invite parents to join us in supporting this policy by considering natural alternatives for packed lunches and snacks. Please avoid packing any snacks or lunch with artificial dyes. On the label it will either have a color name followed by a number or be listed as “artificial color,” “FD&C” (Food, Drug, and Cosmetic), or “C.I.” (Color Index) followed by a number. Any food brought in to share with other students in the class or for school-wide activities should also avoid any artificial colors. We appreciate your collaboration in this effort.

Holistic Approach to Wellness

As part of our holistic wellness philosophy, we believe it is essential to nurture not only the intellectual but also the physical, emotional, and social aspects of each child. Research has shown that artificial dyes, such as Red 40 and Yellow 5, may contribute to symptoms of hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and restlessness, which can negatively impact children’s learning, focus, and behavior.

These symptoms often overlap with those seen in children with ADHD, and studies suggest that the increasing use of artificial dyes may be a contributing factor to the rise in ADHD diagnoses over the past two decades.

Nourishing, mindful nutrition can help mitigate these effects and support children’s overall health.

A well-balanced diet not only fuels their bodies but also contributes to better mood, improved focus, and healthier social interactions.

Quick Nutrition Tips

• Limit Processed Foods: Avoid foods high in artificial preservatives, colorings, and flavorings, which can negatively impact your child’s health and behavior. Many processed foods are also high in sugar and salt, which can lead to inflammation and digestive issues.
• Follow Prophetic Traditions: Eating when hungry, but not overeating is encouraged because overeating can disrupt your body’s natural hunger cues, while eating only when hungry helps maintain a healthy balance and supports better digestion. There is a ḥadith from Prophet Muḥammad (ṣ) that states: “Eat when you have an appetite for eating, and stop eating while you still have an appetite.” (Nuri Al-Tabarsi, Mustadrik Al-Wasail wa Mustanbit Al-Masail, vol. 16, p. 221, no. 17).
• Incorporate Foods Mentioned in the Quran and Hadith: Certain foods are known for their nourishing properties when consumed in moderation:
  1. Dates: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, providing natural energy.
  2. Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.
  3. Grains: Provide essential carbohydrates and fiber for growth and energy.
  4. Olives: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants
  5. Pomegranates: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants to support immune health.
  6. Honey: A natural source of antioxidants with antibacterial properties.
  7. Saffron: Supports immune health and improves mood.
• Eat a Rainbow: Encourage your family to eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, as this helps ensure they receive a broad range of essential nutrients.
• Invest in Healthy Food: Healthy food (made from organic and wholesome ingredients) is often more expensive, but such food should be viewed as an investment, not an extra expense.
• Review Medical Checkups: Make sure your child’s health checkups are up to date, and address any nutritional deficiencies (e.g., low iron) that may affect focus and behavior.
• Involve Your Children in Meal Planning and Cooking: When kids participate in meal planning and preparation, they develop a deeper understanding of nutrition, learn to make healthier food choices, and build important life skills. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to connect with your child.

We truly appreciate your support in fostering a nurturing and healthy environment for our students. Let’s work together to ensure that our children receive the best care, both in the classroom and at home.

Thank you for your continued partnership.