Does your child struggle to stay focused and pay attention in school?

Does he complain of tiredness often?

Giving your child the right foods might be the answer to fuelling his energy and keeping him alert and focused throughout the day. 

Here are six great brain-boosting foods to include in your child’s diet:

#1 Oily fish

Fatty fish is an excellent brain food as they are jam-packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which is the brain’s main fuel for building brain and nerve cells. A recent study discovered that people with high levels of omega-3 experienced higher blood flow in the brain. The researchers also found a link between omega-3 and stronger cognitive abilities. (Source)

Examples of oily fish that are rich in omega-3 include salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines. Nuts, seeds, and flaxseed are also high in omega-3.

#2 Blueberries

Blueberries are sweet, low in calories, but pack a nutritional punch. This study discovered that eating blueberries resulted in better memory function in older adults.

These nutrient-dense berries contain polyphenolic compounds. One of these compounds called anthocyanins is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It is also associated with increased neuronal signalling in the brain, which aids memory function.

So go ahead and stock up on blueberries at home. Your kids are likely to polish them up in no time.

#3 Eggs

The humble egg is an important source of protein, vitamins, and minerals such as zinc, iron and copper.

Eggs are rich sources of choline, an essential nutrient that helps in building the membranes of the cells. It is also needed by the body to produce acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter for memory, mood, muscle control, and other brain and nervous system functions. (Source) 

Eggs are also easy to prepare and serve, whether it’s fried sunny side up or hard-boiled.

#4 Leafy greens

Leafy green vegetables are a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with antioxidants, minerals and vitamins such as B-vitamins, which boost your brain power, and help protect your brain.  

The healthiest greens you should be sneaking into your child’s daily diet include broccoli, kale, spinach, and arugula. Some of these, such as kale, should be eaten raw as cooking can result in nutrient loss.

And here is another tip to keep in mind: To increase your child’s daily vegetable intake, it may be a good idea to chop them up and include them in another dish, for example an omelette with spinach and cheese, or fried rice with broccoli.

#5 Peanuts

Did you know that peanuts contain loads of unsaturated fats and protein, and can help maintain a person’s energy levels through the day?

Peanuts also provide key vitamins, such as thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, choline and vitamin E, and minerals like zinc, potassium, and magnesium, that help to keep the brain healthy.

Now you have another healthy snack option for your child – a peanut butter sandwich.

#6 BRAND’S® AlphaMynd Essence of Chicken for Children

BRAND’S® AlphaMynd Essence of Chicken for Children is specially formulated for children aged 2 to 12 years old. It is an ideal supplement to serve your child at breakfast, especially since we all know that school mornings can be a mad rush.

BRAND’S® AlphaMynd is clinically proven to reduce tiredness and improve concentration by improving oxygen flow to the prefrontal cortex of the brain. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for executive functions like problem solving, decision making, working memory, attention, and planning. (Source) BRAND’S® AlphaMynd is available in two variants – Vitamin B Complex, and Lycium. Both boasts the benefits of the original BRAND’S® Essence of Chicken.

Watch this video to hear from a nutritionist about the importance of a good breakfast.