Good Food with Excellent Nutrients Help Brain Development in Children

Children require sufficient nutrients each day not only for their body to grow at the correct rate but also for proper brain development. For this reason, parents and day-care centres need to serve only good food to children that is nutritionally packed with the vital elements necessary for this to happen in the appropriate manner. Read the information below to discover some examples of nutrients that assist with the development of the brain.

1. Antioxidants Improve Memory

The memory is an integral part of the brain and antioxidants help to support and improve its functioning. Without the ability to remember facts and other information, children cannot learn at the proper rate. Blueberries and other berries are a rich source for these antioxidants.

2. Protein Is Vital for Brain-Cell Growth

Without protein, brain-cell production and growth both will come to a halt. Fish, poultry and other meats are excellent sources of protein for growing children. While certain cultures avoid pork, others include it in their meals. Since this meat is controversial, day-care centres should avoid serving it to prevent issues from occurring for the centres.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Fatty acids of this category energise the brain to keep it thinking quickly and clearly. Foods that supply the omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, yogurt, flax seed and enriched eggs.

4. Choline

Choline helps in the creation of the memory stem cells in the brain. The greater that these cells number, the better children’s memories will be, and this will help them throughout their lives. Eggs, shrimp, scallops, chicken and cruciferous vegetables are top sources for this valuable nutrient.

5. Fibre-Rich Foods Provide Fuel for the Brain

High-fibre foods, such as oatmeal, whole-grain breads and brown rice, provide folate, a type of B vitamin, to the brain for just one benefit. Folate is crucial for brain development even when the child is still a fetus in his mother’s womb. In addition, whole grains are a source of other B vitamins that improve the brain’s alertness.

6. Iron Helps to Develop the Nervous System and the Brain

Iron is a mineral that is vital for blood health as well as the development of the nervous system and brain. Even as babies, children require a regular intake of iron for proper development. Foods that are rich sources of iron include dark leafy greens, beef and other meats, and fish.

As a childcare catering service that focuses on delivering fresh, nutritious meals each day, Hearty Health can help your day-care centre provide the above nutrients and others to the children in your care. We use local, seasonal ingredients to ensure that the meals are flavourful, fresh and healthy. Our company even offers special allergen meals when necessary.