On Thursday, February 13, 2025, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Mohammed M. Hussein, a group of third-year students from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Cihan University-Erbil presented a seminar at the Department of Business Management and the College of Administration and Finance, Salahaddin University. The seminar, titled The Role of Nutrition in Stress Management, was attended by the students and lecturers of the department, highlighting the significance of the topic in academic and professional settings.
Upon arrival, the students were warmly received by the head of the Business Management Department, who introduced them to the attendees and expressed appreciation for their efforts in promoting health awareness. During the seminar, they explained how nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, B vitamins, and antioxidants play crucial roles in reducing stress and improving mood. They highlighted the negative effects of caffeine overconsumption, processed foods, and sugar spikes, which can contribute to anxiety, irritability, and fatigue. The seminar also emphasized the importance of a balanced diet, hydration, and mindful eating in managing stress levels.
To make the session more interactive, they guided the audience through practical techniques for reducing stress through nutrition, including meal planning for sustained energy, choosing stress-reducing foods, and the role of hydration in mental clarity. They also discussed how gut health influences emotional well-being, emphasizing the connection between the gut and the brain. The presence of lecturers in the audience contributed to insightful discussions, as they shared their perspectives on stress management in professional and educational environments. The seminar concluded with an open Q&A session, where attendees asked about healthy dietary habits to enhance focus, improve sleep quality, and maintain emotional balance under stressful conditions.
This seminar provided the attendees with valuable insights into the connection between diet and stress management, equipping them with practical tools to improve their well-being through nutrition. It also gave the Nutrition and Dietetics Department students the opportunity to enhance their public speaking and communication skills, while encouraging future professionals to adopt healthier eating habits for mental resilience and overall success.
