As a new school year commences, parents and caregivers have the pivotal task of ensuring children succeed, as early educational achievements lay the foundation for future accomplishments. For most, this means arranging tutors, scheduling doctor’s appointments, and encouraging participation in extracurricular activities to maximize children’s learning potential. Yet, many do not recognize nutrition’s integral role in learning and academic success.

While research shows children who have a healthy and nutritious diet may have improved mental health, enhanced cognitive skills like concentration and memory and improved academic performance, a new parent survey conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by New Jersey-based OmniActive Health Technologies shows there are knowledge gaps in children’s nutritional needs. For example, parents rank milk, apples and salmon as the top three items they serve their child for eye health. Yet, the American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests dark leafy greens such as kale because of kale’s high concentration of lutein and zeaxanthin.

In an effort to continually educate individuals about the significance of maintaining optimal eye and brain health throughout all stages of life and the potential benefits of lutein and zeaxanthin, OmniActive kicks off this year’s national education awareness initiative, “Lutein for Every Age.” This program spotlights lutein and zeaxanthin’s potential in enhancing eye and brain health with a forthcoming children’s study and provides online and offline educational resources, expert insights, and actionable advice, from health advisors, Joseph Allen, OD, FAAO, and Dipl ABO, and Registered Dietitian Keri Glassman, MS & CDN.

“Through our ‘Lutein for Every Age’ initiative, we aspire to illuminate the path to healthier eyes and sharper minds for the next generation,” said Adam Adelmann, chief commercial officer at OmniActive. “We want to inspire families with the knowledge and tools they need to build healthier futures for their children.”

OmniActive’s “Lutein for Every Age” parent survey was conducted to better understand the current landscape of children’s diets, digital device usage, and general health practices, and the results were enlightening:

• Check-ups: 17 percent of parents admitted that their child’s vision had gone unchecked for three or more years; the American Optometric Association recommends eye exams once before first grade and annually thereafter.
• Concerns: Six in 10 parents expressed regular concerns about their child’s eye health, prioritizing it above other well-being needs, but are unfamiliar with ways to support it effectively.
• Nutritional Gaps: Only 21 percent of parents provide their children with vitamins and supplements to protect their vision; 23 percent include fruits and vegetables rich in eye health vitamins and minerals in their diets.
• Device Usage: The average child uses digital devices more than four hours daily.

For more information, visit www.lutemax.com.