19th Feb 2009 - 00:00
Abstract
More than 250 sixth-form students from Reading Blue Coat School in Sonning-on-Thames have been given tips on improving their diet by school meals provider Sodexo.
The sixth-formers took part in an interactive 'Healthwise' presentation with Sodexo dietitian Wan Mak, to refresh their knowledge on healthy eating in preparation for when they leave school. 'Healthwise', Sodexo's nutrition, well-being and lifestyle philosophy; is the company's commitment to ensuring it provides its customers with the information and catering choices required to maintain a healthier lifestyle. Wan used the 'Eatwell Plate', a pictorial guide to the five essential food groups of a balanced diet, devised by the Food Standards Agency, to demonstrate how students can combine these on a daily basis. She explained what the average energy requirements are for people of their age, and encouraged them to think about how to adapt their diets when taking part in regular exercise; such as eating additional carbohydrates for energy and drinking extra fluids to avoid dehydration. The students were then invited to complete a questionnaire on their current dietary habits, before discussing the answers to find out whether they were eating the recommended amounts of fat, fibre and salt. They were also each given a 'Healthwise' booklet, with further healthy diet and lifestyle tips, to take home. Wan Mak said: "At Sodexo, we understand the importance of a balanced diet and active lifestyle to maintaining good health, and are committed to communicating this to our customers. "These students are about to make the transition from sixth-form to work or further study, where they are likely to be cooking and preparing food for themselves more regularly. It is an excellent opportunity for us to refresh their knowledge of healthy eating and encourage them to keep on making positive diet and lifestyle choices as they get older."