There are published studies that prove this. Learning, intellectual development and school performance are also linked to nutrition.

Nutrients act as adjuncts to the body's metabolic processes, which is why the nutritional quality of the food we eat is so important at school age. The consumption of highly processed foods, with high levels of sugar, salt, saturated fats and chemical additives should be avoided or reduced, as these have a negative effect on brain performance.

The consumption of wholegrain cereals, which contain fibres that help cognitive performance, should be promoted. Deficiencies of these carbohydrate-rich foods can lead to lack of energy, fatigue and attention deficit in children.

Proteins are also the builders of neural networks, producing the synapses that help neurons communicate. Not all of them are produced by the body, so they have to be consumed in the diet. They are found in meat, fish, eggs, pulses and dairy products.

Omega 6s are also very important for concentration and are healthy fats found in olive oil, nuts and some seeds.

Deficiency in omega-3 influences lack of motivation and causes learning problems as well as impaired vision. They are present in oily fish, dark-coloured vegetables, some seeds and nuts.

B-complex vitamins are associated with the production of neurotransmitters responsible for attention, they improve memory and keep the child calmer, reducing excitement. They are present in foods of animal origin, pulses, seeds and nuts.

Food education at school age is becoming increasingly important. Eating meals on time, not skipping meals, varying foods, making healthy choices and reducing processed foods are the priorities for achieving good intellectual and physical performance at school.