As a parent, you want your child to be intelligent and healthy at the same time. You always want them to perform well academically, which leads to their overall success.
There are many things you can do to help your child, including providing a healthy diet that can boost their brainpower. Eating smart helps improve your child’s cognitive function, memory, and focus, leading to better academic performance. So let’s consider the most common foods that smart children eat.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish such as sardines, salmon, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids that are critical components for a child’s cognitive development. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the growth and function of the brain.
Research shows that children who eat fish twice a week achieve better scores in cognitive tests than those who don’t eat fish frequently. Moreover, omega-3 fatty acids help in preventing ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), which is a prevalent problem among children.
Eggs
Eggs are an incredible source of protein and other key nutrients such as choline. Choline helps in brain development and function. It is a crucial component in the formation of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which helps with memory improvement.
Furthermore, the protein content in eggs aids in the development of muscle tissues in children.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are an excellent source of energy for the brain. Consuming whole grains such as oatmeals, brown rice, and whole-grain bread provides long-lasting energy for the brain, keeping your child alert throughout the day.
The soluble fiber found in whole grains helps in regulating blood sugar levels, which contributes to keeping a child’s mood and energy levels in check and could impact their academic performance.
Blueberries
Blueberries contain flavonoids known as anthocyanins that help in protecting the brain from oxidative stress that causes damage to cells. Research shows that people who consume blueberries regularly have better cognitive function.
Additionally, blueberries are rich in vitamins C and K, which help in reducing inflammation in the body and improve bone health.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are essential components that help boost brainpower. Some of the essential nuts and seeds include almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and walnuts. These nuts and seeds contain vitamin E, which is crucial for brain development and function.
Furthermore, vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, which helps in protecting the brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate provides many health benefits to the body, including mental health. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that help in improving blood flow to the brain.
Consuming dark chocolate regularly has been shown to improve cognitive function, memory, and mood. However, consuming large amounts of dark chocolate can also lead to weight gain due to its high-calorie content, so moderation is key.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and broccoli are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals that are critical for brain development and function.
These vegetables contain vitamins A, C, E, and K, which help in reducing inflammation and act as antioxidants. Additionally, these vegetables contain iron, which is essential for healthy brain tissue development and function.
Lean Meat
Lean meats such as beef, chicken, and pork are excellent sources of protein, iron, and zinc, all of which are essential for brain development and cognitive function.
Iron and zinc improve brain function by aiding in the production of neurotransmitters, which are critical for nerve cell communication. Additionally, protein helps in building muscle tissue, and a healthy body leads to a healthy brain.
Yogurt
Yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that boost digestive health. Improving gut health has a positive impact on brain health. Consuming yogurt regularly helps improve mood, reduce anxiety and stress.
Additionally, yogurt is rich in calcium, which helps in the development and maintenance of healthy bones, including the skull.
Fruits
Fruits such as bananas, oranges, berries, and apples are essential in providing a child with the necessary vitamins and minerals that are critical for brain development and function.
These fruits provide fiber, vitamins C and K, potassium and antioxidants, which are all elements that contribute to brain health. Furthermore, fruits are an excellent source of natural sugar, which helps provide brain cells with the energy they need to function correctly.