NUT3705
ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 30 MAY 2025
, FINAL PORTFOLIO
Topic: Nutrition in Adolescents: The Role of Healthy Eating in Academic Performance
Student Name: [Insert your name]
Course Name/Code: [Insert course details]
Date of Presentation: [Insert date]
Venue: [Insert venue]
Target Audience: Grade 10–12 learners at [Insert school name]
SECTION A: IMPROVED LITERATURE REVIEW AND PRESENTATION TEXT
A.1 IMPROVED LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction
Adolescence is a time of rapid physical and mental development, making proper
nutrition especially important. A healthy diet not only fuels the body but also supports
brain development, learning ability, and behavior. In the South African context, poor
eating habits and food insecurity remain key barriers to learners reaching their full
academic potential.
Discussion
The Importance of Nutrients
The brain requires specific nutrients to function effectively. Carbohydrates are the main
energy source, helping maintain concentration and focus. Proteins are essential for
brain chemical (neurotransmitter) activity, while healthy fats improve memory and
processing speed. Micronutrients such as iron, iodine, and vitamin B12 are also vital for
maintaining energy levels and attention. In South Africa, iron deficiency is especially
common among adolescents and is linked to fatigue and poor classroom engagement.
Link Between Diet and Academic Success
Research, including a 2020 study in the South African Journal of Clinical Nutrition,
highlights that students who eat balanced breakfasts tend to perform better on cognitive
ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 30 MAY 2025
, FINAL PORTFOLIO
Topic: Nutrition in Adolescents: The Role of Healthy Eating in Academic Performance
Student Name: [Insert your name]
Course Name/Code: [Insert course details]
Date of Presentation: [Insert date]
Venue: [Insert venue]
Target Audience: Grade 10–12 learners at [Insert school name]
SECTION A: IMPROVED LITERATURE REVIEW AND PRESENTATION TEXT
A.1 IMPROVED LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction
Adolescence is a time of rapid physical and mental development, making proper
nutrition especially important. A healthy diet not only fuels the body but also supports
brain development, learning ability, and behavior. In the South African context, poor
eating habits and food insecurity remain key barriers to learners reaching their full
academic potential.
Discussion
The Importance of Nutrients
The brain requires specific nutrients to function effectively. Carbohydrates are the main
energy source, helping maintain concentration and focus. Proteins are essential for
brain chemical (neurotransmitter) activity, while healthy fats improve memory and
processing speed. Micronutrients such as iron, iodine, and vitamin B12 are also vital for
maintaining energy levels and attention. In South Africa, iron deficiency is especially
common among adolescents and is linked to fatigue and poor classroom engagement.
Link Between Diet and Academic Success
Research, including a 2020 study in the South African Journal of Clinical Nutrition,
highlights that students who eat balanced breakfasts tend to perform better on cognitive
