FOODS TO HELP KIDS FOCUS
The human brain – especially a growing one – needs plenty of energy. These foods boost brain power
FOOD doesn’t only fuel your body – it keeps your brain going too. When your grey matter doesn’t get the nutrients it needs, it can’t spark the way it should. So with exams rolling around again and kids needing to put in plenty of study time, make sure they’re eating foods that boost brain function, improve concentration and enhance memory.
Here’s a list of what to stock up on to fill them up with the good stuff.
EGGS
They’re among the most nutritious foods around and incredibly versatile too. Eggs are perfect for breakfast as they’re a great source of protein, which helps to keep your children feeling fuller for longer. They’re also rich in vitamins A and D. It’s the yolk that contains most of the good stuff, so make sure your kids eat the whole egg. Whether scrambled, boiled, fried – any way they like them will do. But if you’re in the mood to jazz things up, try making a frittata, which you could even serve for supper. There’s a great recipe in our cookbook Low-Carb: Healthy & Delicious, available at R35 at youstore.co.za.
OATS
This is also a good breakfast option, as the fibre in oats keeps your child feeling fuller for longer. The potassium, zinc and vitamins B and E in oats are essential for brain function.
Unlike sugary breakfast cereals, oats provide a steady release of energy and won’t cause a spike in your child’s blood sugar. Large-flake rolled oats are best. Add a little ground cinnamon or nuts and seeds for a flavour upgrade.
SPINACH
Popeye really was onto something. Spinach is a good source of iron, which your body needs to produce enough healthy oxygencarrying red blood cells. Kids who don’t get enough iron from their diet can feel tired and even weak. And yes, you’ve guessed it – they battle to concentrate. Spinach packs a double punch as it’s also a good source of magnesium, a mineral essential for electrolyte balance in the body – a lack of it causes “brain fog”. If your kids don’t like cooked spinach on its own, add chopped spinach to omelettes and lasagne. Or try giving it to them raw – use baby spinach leaves instead of lettuce in salads and sandwiches.