THE ROLE OF HEALTHY NUTRITION IN SUPPORTING HEALTHY GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT AMONG CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS IN PRESCHOOL AND EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS

Adequate nutrition during childhood and adolescence is fundamental to physical growth, cognitive development, immune function, and long-term health. Children attending preschool and educational institutions spend a substantial proportion of their daily lives in organized care settings, making these institutions important environments for promoting healthy dietary behaviors and preventing nutrition-related health problems. Objective This article examines the role of healthy nutrition in supporting the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development of children and adolescents and discusses the importance of nutrition-related practices within preschool and educational institutions.