The COPTER (Center for Obesity Prevention, Treatment, Education, and Research) team at NDU – Dr. Antoine Aoun, Dr. Sibelle Hayek, and Maria Aoun – held informative workshops in various schools, targeting children, parents, and staff.
An example of these sessions is one titled “Fueling Minds and Bodies: The Importance of Nutrition in Education”, which featured an interactive lecture delivered to approximately 250 teachers from different school divisions. The session emphasized the impact of nutrition and specific foods on mental and physical health, which, in turn, influences teaching effectiveness. Key learnings focused on three factors affected by good or poor nutrition: mental health, focus and memory, and the immune system.
Nutrition affects mental and physical health by providing essential nutrients needed for optimal brain function and overall well-being. Moreover, a balanced diet supports mood regulation, focus, and memory, while poor nutrition can contribute to fatigue, stress, and depression. Finally, proper nutrition strengthens the immune system, boosts energy, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. These valuable insights provided school staff with a deeper understanding of how their own eating habits can influence their productivity and, consequently, the education of their students.
Additionally, practical tips on preparing school lunchboxes were provided, based on the following healthy eating habits, which apply to children as well as adults:
- Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Seasonal products should ideally be considered for optimal nutritional benefits.
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding ready-made juices, which are full of sugar and not particularly healthy.
- Limiting the intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and unhealthy fats. Homemade healthy cakes are a suitable alternative for sweet snacks.
- Eating regular, balanced meals to maintain consistent energy levels, starting with a solid breakfast.
The COPTER Center is a pioneering initiative in Lebanon and the Middle East, catering to NDU staff, faculty members, students, and the wider community. Obesity-related health conditions are significant contributors to preventable premature death globally, costing billions of dollars annually. In Lebanon, almost two-thirds (67.3%) of the population grapples with excess weight, according to the World Health Organization. COPTER’s treatment strategy focuses on providing clinical services with a multidisciplinary approach, including medical and behavioral interventions to manage and reduce weight.
In parallel, the COPTER team will maintain and expand its education plan by reaching more schools across Lebanon, both online and onsite—such as in the North and the Shouf as the next regions—to further raise awareness about building a healthy lifestyle. As a result, the risks of obesity can be prevented when and where possible, laying the groundwork for lifelong wellness, especially in young children.