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Healthy Habits for Life

Nutrition Center & 5-Star Guidelines

Good nutrition leads to great academic performance. Explore our 5-star food group principles, student fitness guides, sports fueling, and family recipes.

Mind & Body Connection

Good Nutrition Leads to Great Academic Performance

Your body needs healthy fuel to perform, to grow, and to ward off illness and disease. Would you feed a million dollar racehorse junk food and soda? Of course not — so think about what you eat, because you are worth far more than any racehorse!

Good nutrition has a positive and direct impact on your ability to do well in school. When your nutritional needs are met, you have the cognitive energy to learn and achieve. Well-nourished students have higher test scores, increased school attendance, improved classroom concentration, and better overall classroom behavior.

Winning Recipe for Health
Whole grains, fruits & vibrant vegetables
Control portion sizes; avoid supersizing
Get active for 60+ minutes at least 5x/week
Stay hydrated with pure water throughout day
The 5 Food Groups

Our 5-Star Nutritional Standards

Every meal served in SLUSD cafeterias is planned around balance and variety across all 5 core nutrient groups.

Building Blocks

Lean Proteins

Lean poultry, eggs, legumes, and plant-based proteins that build muscles, repair tissue, and sustain energy.

Sustained Energy

Whole Grains

100% whole grain breads, brown rice, tortillas, and pastas loaded with complex carbohydrates and B vitamins.

Vitamins & Fiber

Vibrant Veggies

Dark leafy greens, orange carrots, crisp cucumbers, and legumes providing essential antioxidants.

Natural Sweetness

Fresh Fruits

Whole tree-ripened stone fruits, berries, citrus, and apples rich in Vitamin C and fiber.

Bone Health

Low-Fat Dairy

Fresh 1% white milk, non-fat milk, and low-fat cheeses rich in calcium, vitamin D, and potassium.

Explore Further

Nutrition Resources

Dive into our specialized youth fitness guides, athlete nutrition tips, classroom activity sheets, and family dinner recipes.