Brain Food for your Child

As we’ve spoken about in our previous posts, the brain of a young child/ toddler is undergoing crucial, rapid development and is going through a sea of changes as it forms and matures, becoming the most complex and fascinating organ of our bodies.

The Importance of Diet

It goes without saying that diet, nutrition and both physical and mental well

being plays a huge part in shaping our young brains. The brain is the body’s most demanding unit, consuming more calories than any other. According to Dr. Vikram Singh, a neurologist at Moolchand Medcity in New Delhi, “It uses up roughly half the calories we consume every day”.

It is essential that the brain gets its regular supply of vital nutrients, minerals and other forms of nourishment to ensure its healthy development.

What to Eat

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Foods containing Omega 3, such as fish and plant oils, are on the biggest contributors to brain health. Peanut Butter is a great brain food that contains Omega 3 and it’s something that all kids love. Add a touch of sweetness and health by adding chopped berries, like blueberries, to a peanut butter sandwich, your kids will love it! Berries are also rich in antioxidants, which are responsible for keeping your brain and your body fresh and maintained from the inside.

Veggies!

Broccoli, Cauliflower and Beans might not by your child’s favorite food, but they’re all high in choline, a nutrient essential for developing memory and the channels through which the brains communicates with the rest of the body. There you go, another reason for your children all their greens!

Whole Grains

By now, most people know about the benefit of whole grains to our diet, and it’s not surprising that they do wonders for children too. These complex carbohydrates are one of the most important sources of energy (Glucose). Unlike sweets and other sugary foods, which have glucose but lack fiber, whole grains such as whole grain bread, pasta and cereal deliver and create energy in the body in a slower, more natural process, so you won’t have to worry about hyperactivity and crankiness usually displayed by small children upon consuming sugary foodstuff. This is also relatively simple to inculcate in their diets, since all kids love cereal. Simply buy a whole grain version the next time, it might cost a little more, but your kids are worth it. Same goes for the bread you make their sandwiches with.

Milk and Ghee

The importance of a regular supply of cow’s milk cannot be understated. Rich in so many essential nutrients, it is described in Ayurveda as an essential brain food, along with Ghee. Especially at a young, tender age, milk protein helps form neurotransmitters and mental acuity. Combining milk with another well known, ayurvedic brain food – Almonds, gives it an even greater nutritional punch.

Be wholesome and Holistic

As always, remember that a wide variety of food and a balanced diet is what is required for a healthy body as well as a healthy mind. Avoid foods that contain additives, preservatives and other chemicals you’re not sure about. Don’t assume that food companies always have your child’s best interests in mind and always be aware. Buy fresh food, and only feed your child organic, unprocessed produce.