THE IMPACT OF EATING FREQUENCY TO THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES LEARNERS

Abstract

Researchers have long been intrigued by the impact of students' eating habits on their academic performance. Eating habits encompass various factors, including the types of foods consumed, meal timing, portion sizes, snacks, and overall food choices. These habits not only influence physical health but also affect cognitive abilities and learning outcomes. Proper nutrition is crucial for students who want to perform well in school, as it provides the brain with the necessary energy to concentrate, retain information, and excel academically. Unfortunately, not all students have access to healthy food options, which can hinder their academic success.

Our study aims to investigate the eating habits of Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) students and how these habits relate to their academic grades. We are building on previous research, such as the 2015 study conducted by Saeidi et al. in Mashhad, Iran, which examined the relationship between diet and learning. However, our focus is specifically on students at Immaculada Concepcion College.

By carefully analyzing data, we hope to gain insights into the connection between eating habits and academic performance. Our goal is to provide valuable information to teachers, parents, and policymakers that can help improve students' eating habits, ultimately leading to better academic outcomes. We aim for our research to fill existing gaps in knowledge and offer clear answers that can make a meaningful difference for students. In this study, the researchers employed a quantitative research method to collect data from various sections of the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand. A descriptive research design was utilized, and simple random sampling was applied to select respondents and ensure the validity of the study’s findings. The results indicate a significant correlation between eating frequency and academic performance. Students who regularly consume meat or meat products, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and seafood tend to exhibit better academic performance, highlighting the impact of a well-balanced diet on cognitive function and learning outcomes. This study investigates the relationship between eating frequency and academic performance among Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) students at Immaculada Concepcion College. It examines students’ eating habits, specifically their consumption of meat, vegetables, and fruits, and assesses their average grade levels to determine if a correlation exists.

Findings reveal a significant relationship between regular consumption of nutritious foods (meat, vegetables, fruits, dairy, and seafood) and improved academic performance, emphasizing the role of a balanced diet in cognitive function and learning success.

The study recommends:

Educating students on healthy eating habits.

Providing healthier food options in the school cafeteria.

Collaborating with community groups to implement nutrition programs.

Future research using Pinggang Pinoy as a framework to measure proper nutrition through Go, Grow, and Glow food categories.