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| Brain food for kids |
Then you should take a close look at what s/he’s eating. The growing years of children, especially the first six years, are critical for brain development. This development is dependent on genetics, how the brain is used, and circumstances it’s exposed to.
Apart from these factors, a child’s diet also has a significant impact on his cognitive skills and intelligence. Researchers have proven that several foods can boost the brain’s growth, thereby improving concentration and memory.
Want to know more about it? Then stay tuned!
1. Salmon: Fish high in fats, like salmon, are incredible sources of omega 3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, which are essential for the growth and functioning of the brain.
It’s been proven scientifically that people who consume more of these fatty acids have sharper minds and perform excellently on mental skill tests.
2. Eggs: Apart from being an excellent source of protein, eggs, particularly egg yolks come packed with choline, a nutrient vital for creating memory stems cells. The more cells your child has, the better will be his memory. Eggs even contain brain-friendly nutrients such as zinc, lutein and omega
3. fatty acids/Greek Yogurt: Fat is profoundly important for the brain, and it’s been asserted more than once. So a full-fat yogurt, rich in protein, can benefit your child’s brain in ways more than you can ever think.
A regular consumption of Greek yogurt will help the brain cells send and receive information. It’s even packed with B-complex vitamins, which are required for the growth of brain tissue.
4. Nuts And Seeds: Nuts and seeds are packed with essential fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals, which will keep your child’s nervous system in check. Alternatively, you can even serve peanut butter or almond butter to your child. Just check the labels to ensure that it’s free from cholesterol and harmful fats.
5. Green Leafy Veggies: Green leafy veggies are rich in vitamin and folate, which can help improve memory. Kale and spinach, especially, are linked to reducing the chances of suffering from dementia later in life. Besides, green veggies are packed with antioxidants, which help in the growth of brain cells.
6. Oatmeal: Research carried out at the Tufts University found that kids who ate sweetened oatmeal performed way better on spatial memory tasks than those who consumed sugar laden cereals. It’s because Oatmeal is loaded with fiber, and provides a stream of energy, thereby enabling them to perform well at all tasks in school. It’s also a good source of vitamin B, E, zinc, and potassium, nutrients which help the brain perform at its utmost capacity.
7. Beans: Do you know why beans are special for the brain? Because they contain omega 3 fatty acids, ALA to be specific, which is essential for brain growth and function.
8. Apples: Next time, when your child craves sweet, hand him an apple instead of a chocolate bar. Apples contain quercetin, an antioxidant which fights the decline in the mental skills. Most of the nutrients in apples are contained in the skin. So ensure that you purchase organic, and pesticide free apples.
9. Whole Grains: The brain needs a regular supply of glucose for proper functioning, and whole grain products can provide that to your child in plenty. Whole grains contain loads of fiber, which regulates the release of glucose in the body. It even contains B complex vitamin, which can help nourish a nervous system and improve alertness.
10. Berries: We bet no child can refuse juicy, colorful and flavorful berries. Cherries, blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries contain high levels of antioxidants, which has been shown to boost the cognitive functioning of the rats.
A diet rich in antioxidants also prevents oxidative stress in the brain. The seeds from the berries are also a decent source of omega 3 fatty fats. Please give real berries to your children to avail its nutritional benefits, not the packaged or processed ones.
These brain foods may not be your child’s favorite, but if you serve them in interesting ways, they’ll surely give it a try. If your child hates eating green leafy veggies, puree the vegetables and cook it with pasta. Top it with olive oil dressing to make it even more palatable.
And if he detests eating beans, roast, toss in oregano and serve. They’ll definitely relish it. So why wait? So give your kid’s brain a nutritional boost with these foods. And if you have any query regarding the article, shoot a comment below.
