Studies have revealed that promoting health eating in children would have manifold benefits on their concentration levels. Healthy eating would enable children to get the proper nutrients in the necessary amounts needed for the growth and development of the brain. Given below are 5 of the main benefits associated with healthy eating in children when it comes to improving concentration.
Brain Growth and Development
Brain growth and development is faster during early childhood. As such, an omega 3 fatty acid called DHA is considered very essential for brain development. Mostly found in breast milk and other formulae foods, DHA helps the brain cells to work more efficiently. Salmon and fatty fish are also rich sources of omega 3 fatty acids considered essential in promoting quick learning in addition to reducing sleep and other behavioral disorders that can potentially interfere with concentration in children.
Prevention of Brain Damage on the Cellular Level
A wide variety of berries like raspberries, strawberries and blueberries are also said to aid in brain development and function. These berries contain plant compounds called phytochemicals which aid in flushing out free radicals from the brain, thereby preventing cell damage which could otherwise reduce the concentration levels to a great effect. Blueberries in particular, help boost memory power and concentration significantly. Adding berries to your child’s daily diet would therefore, help boost his/her concentration levels.
Reduction in Energy Dips
Foods like burgers, fries and other fatty foods can hinder the concentration levels by causing a dip in the energy levels and making the body sluggish. Sugary foods like chocolates, candies and cookies can also cause energy dips by making the sugar levels in the body spike up and plunge down rapidly. Increased consumption of sugary and fatty foods can also lead to childhood obesity which can then seriously impair mental health, including concentration.
Breakfast Energy
Studies have revealed that children who eat a healthy breakfast every day tend to be more active (physically and mentally) in class when compared to those who skip breakfast. A healthy breakfast provides fuel to the brain to start working for the day, thereby improving the concentration levels and memory power tremendously. Skipping breakfast would also cause the body to lose energy during the course of the day, thereby blocking the brain from performing properly.
Nutritional Strengths
Nutritional deficiencies in children can cause frequent energy dips which in turn can cause concentration problems. Iron deficiencies in particular are known to affect brain development. Therefore, eating a diet rich in iron (including foods like poultry, beef and enriched cereals) can help increase the concentration levels in your children. In addition to this, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin C are considered important for brain development as well. While Vitamin B12 aids in maintaining the myelin, a tissue responsible for covering the nerves in the brain, Vitamin C aids in producing neurotransmitters needed for effective communication between individual brain cells. Excellent sources of Vitamin B12 include eggs, dairy products and meat while sources for Vitamin C include citrus fruits and their juices.
Summary
Healthy brain growth and development is essential for a child in the early years. By encouraging them to eat healthy and opt for healthier foods over non healthy choices, you would be doing them a great favor in the long run.