The brain develops rapidly and impressively before the age of six, with approximately 60% of this growth completed by age three and over 90% by age six. After this milestone, other parts of the body begin their growth spurt. For instance, the immune system, which helps keep the body healthy, experiences a rapid increase around age six and peaks at age twelve. Many parents report that their children get sick less often after turning six, indicating the importance of this stage.
Parents naturally wish for their children to have a brilliant mind, excellent eyesight, and a healthy body. How can we achieve these three wishes? It’s simple: start forming healthy habits now and incorporate three types of foods that are beneficial for the eyes and brain into your child’s diet.
Growth curve.
**Sea Fish – Adding Some “Oil” to Children’s Intelligence**
In a child’s brain, tens of thousands of neurons form connections every second, especially during the first 1,000 days of life, from the fetal stage to around age two. This is a golden period for brain development, when the number of neural connections increases most rapidly.
Without adequate nutritional support, this development will be hindered. Important processes occurring in the brain may not keep up with the progress a child needs to make.
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an essential component of brain cell membranes, comprising 30% to 40% of the brain’s fat content and about 50% of the retina. DHA not only strengthens the brain’s structure and function but also plays a vital role in visual development.
Research shows that when children are provided with sufficient DHA, especially from natural food sources, their brains and eyesight develop better, and they exhibit improved learning abilities.
A DHA-rich diet can be ensured by including sea fish, a bountiful source of omega-3 fatty acids. If children consume sea fish three to four times a week, their brains will receive the necessary DHA for optimal cognitive and visual function development. Sea fish rich in DHA include salmon, mackerel, tuna, and herring, which can be prepared in various enticing dishes for children.
Sea fish varieties rich in DHA.
**Eggs – The Brain’s “Energy Bank”**
Choline is a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which facilitates nerve signal transmission and enhances memory. One egg contains approximately 147mg of choline, and eating one can meet the daily requirement. Sufficient choline intake benefits brain development, improves learning ability, and enhances memory, particularly in growing children.
Additionally, hormones produced by the brain, such as serotonin (the happiness hormone), dopamine (for energy), and melatonin (for sleep support), are all derived from essential amino acids (proteins). These hormones play a crucial role in regulating children’s moods, energy levels, and sleep patterns. A lack of protein can lead to lethargy, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating, impacting their learning and overall development.
Nutritious and easy-to-prepare egg dishes for children.
The ratio of amino acids in eggs closely matches the body’s needs, allowing for easy absorption and utilization. Eggs also contain significant amounts of vitamin B12, selenium, and choline, all of which are essential for growth and maintaining overall health.
If your child is tired of boiled eggs, try different cooking methods to make this food more appealing. A fun suggestion is to make soft egg pancakes, combining eggs with a small amount of flour and milk to create a tasty and nutritious meal. Alternatively, you can prepare egg rolls with seaweed, providing additional fiber and minerals.
When short on time, a quick and nutritious option is egg-on-toast. Simply fry an egg and place it on a slice of bread, adding some fresh vegetables or your child’s favorite sauce.
**Berries – Dual Protection for the Brain and Eyes**
Berries, such as strawberries and blueberries, are rich in anthocyanins, known as “super-nutrients.” They are powerful antioxidants that provide significant protection for the brain and eyes.
If we compare brain and retinal cells to unarmed civilians, anthocyanins are their courageous defenders. Whenever harmful free radicals appear, anthocyanins rush in without hesitation to eliminate them and safeguard these vulnerable cells.
Additionally, anthocyanins are necessary for the production of rhodopsin, which helps the eyes quickly adapt to changing light conditions.
Today’s children often spend time on mobile devices and watching TV. Prolonged exposure to blue light can cause eye strain, dryness, pain, and tearing.
Consuming ample amounts of anthocyanin-rich berries and other fruits and vegetables daily is like putting on protective gear for the brain and eyes.
Small changes can bring about big surprises, so be sure to include these three types of foods in your child’s diet for better overall health and brain development.
Berries like strawberries and blueberries are packed with anthocyanins.
Does a Small-Headed Newborn Mean High Intelligence? 4 Signs Your Baby is Healthy and Bright
The circumference of a small head circumference is influenced by a myriad of factors, with genetics and prenatal nutrition being key players.
3 Surprising Signs Your Baby is a Genius in Disguise
“Recent studies have revealed that certain traits and behaviors exhibited by children in their early years could be indicative of higher intelligence and an above-average IQ. These indicators often manifest in everyday life and can be observed by attentive parents and educators.”
The Golden Months: Unveiling the Secret to Success for Children Born in These Times
Scientific studies reveal that a child’s month of birth could have an impact on their IQ.
The Secret to a High IQ: Unlocking the Mystery of a Child’s Sleep
Creating a comfortable environment for your little one is paramount to ensuring they get a good night’s sleep. This peaceful setting is crucial to their development, particularly for healthy brain growth.
The Three Key Differences Between a Child Who Sleeps Well and One Who Doesn’t
The quality of a child’s sleep can significantly impact their development, and this is evident in three key ways.
