As parents, we all want our kids to do well in life, and by ‘doing well’, we don’t just mean academically but in all spheres of life.

This one aim drives us to go to any length and we try to give them the best environment to grow and achieve success in their respective fields.

Every child has got his/her own innate gift of talent, and as parents, it’s our responsibility to nurture it.

Whether your child wants to be a scientist, pianist or an athlete, nutrition plays an imperative role.

Inculcating good eating habits at an early age pays big dividends in the long run.

A healthy eating behavior also works wonder for their emotional health. Kids who develop healthy eating habits from a young age are less likely to fall victim to fad diets, anorexia and bulimia in their adulthood years.

Academically, food can help you improve your grades, not magically though.

Several scientific studies suggest that healthy food aids in good sleep and physical activity, which are associated with improved academic performance. Eating well is also linked to better attention, concentration and memory.

Remember, food should not be used as a distraction for your kids. Instead, help your kids view it as a fuel for mind and body – as strength and not weakness. Here are certain foods that can boost your child’s brain development.

‍1. Nuts & Seeds

‍Think almonds, walnuts and flax seeds. These are rich in magnesium, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids as these nutrients boost brain health.

‍How: Make a powder of 1 cup Almonds + 1 cup Walnuts + 1/2 cup flax seeds + 1 cup Mishri. Mix 1tbsp of this powder in milk.

‍2. Brahmi

‍It helps in improving memory and learning abilities. Avoid it if the child is suffering from cold and cough as it has a cooling effect on the body.

‍How: Give 1 tsp of Brahmi before bedtime.

‍3. Coconut Oil

‍It is a good combination of MCTs (Medium-chain triglycerides) and anti-oxidants. It has good fats - fuel for the brain.

Moreover, most of our nervous system is made of fat, so it is crucial for neural development.

‍How: It has high smoke point oil, which makes it suitable for healthy cooking. Try to make one sabji or a breakfast preparation (poha, dalia or upma) in coconut oil

.4. Almond Oil

‍Rich in healthy fats, it is a good source of omega 3 and potassium that nourish the brain.

‍How: 1 tsp of almond oil in milk

‍5. Green Leafy Vegetables

‍Research has shown that green leafy vegetables can help in balancing hyperactivity in kids. So, kids who eat more green leafy vegetables are less likely to be hyperactive.

‍How: Either blend your veggies and put it in pasta sauce or juice them and mix with seasonal fruits like watermelon.

From shapes to color and benefits, engage your kids while picking vegetables and make it like a fun activity.

‍6. White Pepper

‍It is known to boost memory. Also, it helps alleviate mental fatigue.

During exams, when there is too much mental tiredness or pressure, a pinch of white pepper can help overcome it.

White pepper contains a chemical called piperine, which helps reduce inflammation in the body as well as improve brain function.‍

How: Blend it with almonds, walnuts, and mishri.

Cheers,

Lovneet