GGC - Education Health and Wellbeing
Eating well and staying active can support our health and wellbeing. Raising awareness through education and promoting healthy habits for children and young people can contribute to improved outcomes.
Our diet is influenced by a range of factors such as culture, religion and beliefs, as well as, preferences, allergies and intolerances and availability of food. What we eat and drink influences our physical health, oral health, energy levels and concentration. Nutrition and hydration helps children and young people to grow and learn.
The Eat Well Guide 
shows current UK recommendations and key components of a healthy diet including:
- Fruit and vegetables
- Starchy carbohydrates e.g. bread, rice, potatoes and pasta
- Protein e.g. meat, fish, pulses
- Dairy or dairy alternatives
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
Physical activity is about getting people moving regardless how big or small the activity is. Being active is good for our physical health, mental health and our wellbeing. It's important that we all try to move our bodies each day when possible. For children and young people, physical activity usually happens naturally throughout their day through a range of activities (e.g. through play, walking to school, sports etc).
This short video clip shares some ways children and young people can incorporate more movement into their day.
Public Health Scotland's Physical Activity Recommendations for children and young people (0-5 years, 5-18 years and disabled children) can be found here .
Young people do not all have equitable access to nutritious food or opportunities to take part in physical activity and sport. Health inequalities can be a consequence of this and can increase the risk of poor health outcomes. Those living in the most deprived areas often consume less fruit, vegetables and more ultra process foods. Diet and activity levels are influenced by several factors, many of which are outside a person's control. By working collaboratively across systems to improve access to healthy food, create supportive environments for physical activity, and reduce structural barriers, we can help address these challenges and support better health and outcomes for children and young people.
Further information:
Caffeinated Energy Drinks: More children and young people are consuming Caffeinated Energy Drinks. These drinks can have an impact on physical and mental health and may be associated with other Multiple Risk 
behaviours. For more information click here 
Healthy Weight Statistics: Public Health Scotland (PHS) provide annual statistics on healthy weight, using body mass index (BMI) for Primary 1 school children. Access the latest release here
