Nutrition Key to Children's Growth, Say Notun Kuri Sports Speakers

The Cube Institute, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports organized a nutrition seminar on 20 July at Shaheed Suhrawardy Indoor Stadium to promote healthy eating habits among adolescent athletes competing in Notun Kuri Sports 2026.

Organized by the National Sports Council, the seminar brought together 550 finalists aged 12 to 14. Experts and policymakers discussed how balanced nutrition supports children's physical growth, mental well-being and athletic performance and urged young participants to cut down on junk food in favor of healthier daily habits.

Nutritionist and Public Health & Wellness Consultant Israt Jahan said young athletes require higher energy and nutrients than other children their age. She advised a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and quality protein such as eggs, fish and chicken. She also emphasized regular milk consumption, noting it provides calcium and essential nutrients for strong bones, healthy muscles and sustained energy.

Arla DANO, the event's Nutrition Partner reinforced the importance of daily milk intake. Anowarul Amin, Head of Corporate Affairs, Communication and Sustainability at Arla Foods Bangladesh Ltd., said proper nutrition and regular milk consumption help children build stronger bodies, maintain energy and develop lifelong healthy habits at this critical stage of growth. He added that the company was proud to support the initiative by providing DANO Daily Pushti to encourage healthier nutrition choices among young athletes.

State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque, attending as chief guest, urged the young athletes to prioritize nutrition alongside sports training. He said achieving full potential in sports and in life requires nourishing the body with healthy food, encouraging participants to choose eggs, fruits and milk over junk food. He added that small healthy choices made today would help build a stronger, healthier Bangladesh tomorrow.

The seminar ended with an interactive question-and-answer session the participants received practical guidance on balanced diets and healthy lifestyles and sports nutrition.