NBHE Real Science

We are Dr. Gregory and Marcy Clark, the support group leaders of MN Black Homeschoolers Alliance, an affiliate of the National Black Home Educators Resource Association. We have 4 children and have been homeschooling for 5 years.

We would like to share a few facts that have helped us in our quest to educate our children. Research shows that the attention span of children is directly related to what types of foods they eat. Foods that are high in sugar and fat have a negative effect on the ability of children to focus. Foods that are high in fiber and B vitamins assist children in maintaining focus. The ability to handle stress is a critical a factor that is supported by the central nervous system. Studies indicate that when foods that are high in B vitamins are omitted from one's diet, attention spans suffer. Conversations about proper diets and one's ability to learn are not often included in the same sentence. However, a careful consideration of these two factors could equip your child with a competitive advantage.

Consider redefining the term "fast food". Fast food is deficient in B vitamins and fiber. Instead of stopping at the drive thru window of the local fast food restaurant on the way home, stop by the kitchen before you leave the house and pick up a few pieces of fruit.

If you plan ahead, you can prepare your food the night before an outing by slicing an apple, orange or other fruit then all you have to do is reach in the fridge before leaving the house. Another idea is to prepare 3 or 4 salads and place them in individual bowls with salad dressing in another bowl. 3 or 4 ounce bowls with lids can be found in many stores and are perfect for carrying salad dressing.

Can you imagine how happy your body would be of you ate a serving of fruit and salad everyday instead of over processed and chemically laden food? Just think of the results of such a practice: more energy, less sickness, and increased vitality to name a few!!!

We have also redefined the term candy- at least in our minds, now if only we can convince our children. In the summer months when fruits are plentiful and freshest, we treat ourselves to the following "candy" supplied by nature:

  • cherries
  • grapes
  • berries of any kind.
These fruits are perfectly packaged and have an appealing color and shape just like the sugary, tooth decaying, candy.

We hope that you will consider adopting more healthy eating habits for your children and family. Remember that strong bodies are needed to support strong minds.