The Nutrition Department of the Ministry of Health, will be hosting a food exhibition and demonstration event at the Micoud Wellness Centre on Friday, June 9, 2023, from 10:00am to 3:00pm, as part of activities to commemorate Caribbean Nutrition Awareness Month in June. The aim of Caribbean Nutrition Awareness Month is to sensitize and educate the public on how good nutrition can positively impact mental health.
Throughout the month of June, the Ministry of Health, via various media platforms, wellness centres and schools, will be enlightening the public particularly school children on the link between nutrition and mental health. Chief Nutritionist Lisa Hunt, said, “Healthy Eating Active Living: “Let’s nourish to flourish…. Your mental health matters” is the theme chosen for Caribbean Nutrition Awareness Month. “The public will be educated about the foods that can affect their mental health both positively and negatively. Healthy snacks and beverages will be on display, as well as for tasting, meal planning and nutrition information will be given to the children and all who attend. Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
“The theme for CNAM well encapsulates this definition, narrowing down on our mental health. Let us ‘Nourish to Flourish’ signifies that we are to eat well-balanced meals and wholesome foods that will lead to good nutrition. The focus remains the same; increased fruits, vegetables, high-fiber foods, exercise, and water. Limit the use of salt, sugar, fat, and highly processed foods,” she added.
The second part of the theme, “Your Mental Health Matters” highlights the mind as an important facet of good health. It is a reminder that food affects mood and ability to focus and have a retentive memory. “Research has shown that too much sugar is linked to increased anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Sugar has also been proven to have negative effects on children’s cognitive development. Our children’s mental health matters and this theme complements the ban on the sale of high-sugar sweetened beverages at schools,” Hunt said.
Meantime, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly will also be collaborating with St Lucia Moves to host a “Walk for Good Mental Health” within the community of Micoud on June 28th, 2023 from 10:00 am. Walking is a great form of physical activity which is low impact and helps persons to remain physically active for good health and well-being.
Photo: Government Of Saint Lucia
