Nutritional deficiencies and imbalances can influence learning directly or indirectly. Fatigue, boredom and low motivation may be the result of poor nutrition. Some vision problems, it is known, are related to deficiencies in vitamin A. A number of studies indicate that protein-caloric malnutrition affects intellectual and psychomotor development. Few educators may realize, though, that thiamine deficiency may decrease abilities involved in learning to read and write. The effects of some nutrient deficiencies, such as thiamine, iron, and minor vitamin A deficiencies, can be easily, rapidly and completely reversed. Unhappily, the effects of protein-caloric malnutrition and major vitamin A deficiencies are not as easily changed. To some extent, however, they too can be reversed. A few studies suggest that improved environments, especially at the preschool level, can ameliorate severe effects of early malnutrition. Additional nutritional problems are associated with allergies, alcohol use, phenylketonuria (PKU), lactose intolerance, and minerals such as lead. The remarks above highlight only a few nutrition issues. Because malnutrition is possible in affluent, developed countries, educators need to develop school-wide policy and practices that extend beyond school lunch, breakfast and nutrition education programs. The effects of soft drink and candy vending machines as well as fund-raising candy sales should also be considered. (Author/RH)