Nutrition is crucial for a child’s physical and cognitive development, especially for children under three years old. It is important to be mindful of certain foods that may negatively impact their brain development.
Sometimes, we may think that a child eating a lot is a good sign, but we might not realize that there could be hidden dangers in some foods. Experts warn that there are six types of food that should be limited for children under three, followed by five alternative options.
Six Brain-Damaging Foods: A Regular Consumption May Harm IQ
The following six foods, when consumed in excess, can be detrimental to a child’s development and may even impact their IQ.
Foods with a Combination of Sugar and Oil
Baked goods such as cakes, egg tarts, fried dough sticks, fried chicken, french fries, pizza, and crispy cookies are often children’s favorites. However, these foods are high in sugar and trans fats. Overconsumption can lead to tooth decay and obesity.
More importantly, long-term consumption can negatively affect their immune system and brain function.
Some foods high in sugar and trans fats are not suitable for children’s health.
Foods with Strong Flavors
As we know, a child’s kidneys under one year old cannot metabolize excessive sodium. Therefore, consuming too much salt will lead to sodium overload. Excess sodium ions can harm the kidneys and interfere with calcium and zinc absorption, affecting bone and brain development.
Food Additives Containing Aluminum
Fried foods on the market, such as french fries, shrimp crackers, popcorn, and fried dough, often contain aluminum-based additives to enhance flavor. Research shows that children who regularly consume foods with high aluminum content have a 40% higher risk of cognitive development delays.
Foods Containing Lead
A popular food among many is century eggs, loved for their chewy and jelly-like texture. However, a study found that lead oxide in traditionally made century eggs can penetrate the egg, leading to potential lead poisoning if consumed in large quantities.
Lead is toxic to the nervous system, digestive system, and blood. In addition to century eggs, lead can also be found in canned foods, so it is best to limit these in a child’s diet.
Lead oxide in traditionally made century eggs can penetrate the egg, leading to potential lead poisoning.
Foods Containing Alcohol
It is important to recognize that even a small amount of alcohol can be harmful to children. Consuming food with alcohol can inhibit the development of the central nervous system, damage the liver’s metabolic function, and cause other metabolic disorders.
Additionally, children should minimize their intake of chocolate, egg yolk cakes, and fermented glutinous rice soup and beverages.
Fruit Juices with Additives and Flavorings
Some packaged fruit juices contain additives such as aspartame, tartrazine, and potassium sorbate, which parents should be cautious about. In reality, many processed foods that children enjoy, such as candies, packaged juices, and snacks, contain a certain amount of additives.
Prolonged consumption of foods with high levels of additives can cause children to have difficulty concentrating, negatively impact their learning ability, and increase the risk of ADHD.
Five Brain-Boosting Foods: Supercharge Your Child’s Intelligence
If you want your child to be healthy and intelligent, offering the right foods is key. Here are five types of food dubbed “brain gold” that parents should include in their child’s diet.
Milk
A daily glass of milk helps boost brain nerves. Milk lecithin acts as a “protective membrane” for brain nerve cells, enabling faster and more accurate signal transmission. A glass of milk in the morning and evening will help your child focus and learn more effectively.
A daily glass of milk helps boost brain nerves.
Eggs
Choline, found in egg yolks, is a powerful memory booster! When boiling eggs, avoid overcooking them. Boil for seven minutes on low heat after the water boils. The egg yolk will be soft and creamy, making it more appealing to children.
Seafood
Fish is rich in DHA, often referred to as the “smart code” for the brain. Salmon and cod are excellent choices and taste great when steamed or made into porridge. Including fish in your child’s diet about twice a week can support quicker reactions and sharper thinking.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote neuron connections. However, whole nuts can be a choking hazard. Instead, grind them into a powder and sprinkle over porridge.
Colorful Vegetables
Colorful vegetables are packed with various antioxidants. For instance, dark green vegetables are rich in folic acid, while orange vegetables contain beta-carotene. Together, they protect brain health.
Colorful vegetables provide a variety of antioxidants, supporting brain health.
When it comes to diet, parents should take the time to choose suitable foods. This way, children will naturally develop healthy eating habits and grow up intelligent. It’s okay to treat your child to ice cream or french fries occasionally. The key is not to make junk food a daily staple. When buying snacks for your child, keep these three rules in mind: short expiration dates, simple ingredients, and natural components.
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