Among well nourished people, acute disease and illness tend to be less frequent, less
severe and of shorter duration (8) thus providing increased capacities to perform daily
activities. Good nutrition also fosters mental, social and physical well-being throughout life; for
instance, by strengthening a positive body image and increasing the sense of personal worth (48).
Healthy nutrition can also contribute to a more comfortable life by helping young people to
develop healthy teeth and gums (62). Thus, good nutrition during childhood helps to lay the
foundation for a healthy adulthood.