Why does the digestive system play such a crucial “decision-making” role?

The small intestine is where almost all nutrients are absorbed: protein, vitamins, minerals, fats, water, etc. Considered the “heart” of the digestive system, the small intestine plays a vital role in converting food into essential nutrients for the body.

If the digestive system is overloaded, nutrients may not be fully absorbed and can be quickly excreted. This usually happens when a child’s diet is unbalanced, with too many hard-to-digest foods or insufficient fiber. When the body cannot handle a large amount of food, the digestive system becomes inefficient, leading to a situation where the child is eating and drinking enough but still lacks micronutrients.

A healthy digestive system helps children absorb nutrients better.

Especially, micronutrient deficiencies can have serious consequences for a child’s development. Micronutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin D are crucial for brain development, immune function, and overall health. Children who lack these micronutrients may struggle with learning, stunted growth, and frequent minor illnesses.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and many nutritional organizations emphasize that efficient digestion is the foundation for comprehensive development. A healthy digestive system maximizes nutrient absorption and maintains gut bacteria balance, essential for long-term health. Beneficial bacteria in the intestines improve digestion, produce vitamins, and boost immunity.

The pillars of development are “fed” by a healthy digestive system

Brain

The brain requires protein, iron, DHA, and B vitamins for its development and efficient functioning. These nutrients are crucial in building the brain’s structure and supporting cognitive functions. Protein provides the essential amino acids for forming and maintaining brain cells, while iron ensures adequate oxygen supply to the brain, optimizing its performance.

Inadequate absorption of these nutrients can severely impact a child’s cognitive speed, reflexes, and language skills. Protein deficiency can lead to intellectual disabilities, while iron deficiency causes anemia, impairing concentration and memory. Children lacking DHA, an important omega-3 fatty acid, may struggle with thinking skills and learning abilities.

Muscles and Height

A child’s muscle mass and height largely depend on adequate protein, calcium, and vitamin D intake. These nutrients are not only essential for bone development but also contribute to muscle mass formation and maintenance. Protein is the primary component of muscle structure, helping to build and repair muscle tissue after physical activities.

Adequate protein, calcium, and vitamin D intake are crucial for a child’s muscle and height development.

Calcium, on the other hand, is the primary mineral in bone structure, and sufficient calcium absorption is a prerequisite for strong and healthy bone development. Vitamin D plays a vital role in helping the body absorb calcium from food.

If the digestive system fails to absorb these nutrients effectively, children will struggle to build muscle mass and may experience stunted growth.

Immune System

Approximately 70% of immune cells are located in the gut, highlighting the importance of the digestive system in maintaining overall health. The immune system protects against pathogens and helps regulate the body’s response to external factors. When the gut is healthy, immune function is optimized, enabling the body to fight off illnesses and maintain optimal health.

However, when the gut is mildly inflamed or the microbiota is imbalanced, it can lead to various health issues.

Children with unhealthy digestive systems often experience symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, indigestion, and skin problems like eczema or itching.

A2 Protein – One of the “easily digestible” nutrients suitable for young children

A2 protein is a pure milk protein with a structure similar to breast milk, according to research. A2 protein is more digestible and less likely to cause minor digestive issues such as bloating and abdominal discomfort, making it an ideal choice for those sensitive to milk or with weak digestion.

As the digestive system can handle A2 protein more efficiently, nutrients are absorbed into the body quickly and effectively. Better absorption ensures the body receives the necessary nutrients to support the recovery and development of various tissues and organs.

When A2 protein is consumed, digestion occurs in the small intestine, where it is broken down into smaller amino acids and peptides easily absorbed through the intestinal wall. Once absorbed, these nutrients are distributed to critical body parts, such as the brain, muscles, and immune system.

Brain: The amino acids from A2 protein are used to produce neurotransmitters, improving focus, learning abilities, and memory.

Muscles: A2 protein provides the essential building blocks for muscle tissue, supporting growth and recovery after physical activities.

Immune System: A2 protein can also boost the immune system, protecting the body from pathogens.

Warm milk is an excellent choice to support digestion, soothe the stomach, and provide high-quality protein.

So, what is the “right time”?

Early in the morning after waking up

“Hungry” intestines, or a clean digestive system, is a crucial concept in maintaining optimal digestive health. When the intestines are free from harmful waste and bacteria buildup, the digestive system functions more efficiently, allowing the body to absorb nutrients optimally.

Warm milk is an excellent choice to support digestion, soothe the stomach, and provide high-quality protein. Warm milk stimulates digestive enzyme production, aiding the body in breaking down and absorbing nutrients, especially when combined with A2 protein. A2 protein in warm milk is more digestible, reducing discomfort like bloating or abdominal distension.

Banana is a fruit rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, beneficial for digestion. Banana fiber improves intestinal motility, making it easier for children to digest food.

Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber and B vitamins, supporting the digestive process. Oatmeal fiber promotes a feeling of fullness and encourages the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Combining oatmeal with warm milk and banana creates a complete meal, providing essential nutrients for both digestion and overall health.

After light physical activity (play, study, or after school)

After physical activity, the body needs a quick energy boost to recover and replenish its strength. Timely nutrition helps with muscle recovery, supports glycogen repletion (the body’s primary energy source), and some optimal nutrition choices include cold milk, fruit smoothies, and light protein sources.

Cold milk helps cool the body, provides protein and calcium, aids in muscle recovery, and builds muscle tissue. Additionally, cold milk is easily digestible and improves appetite, especially after exercise.

Fruit smoothies made with bananas, pineapples, and strawberries are not only rich in vitamins and minerals but also provide natural carbohydrates to replenish glycogen in the muscles. A glass of fruit smoothie after a workout aids in energy recovery, provides fiber to support digestion, and makes the body feel more comfortable.

Light protein sources are easily digestible and quickly absorbed by the body, effectively supporting muscle recovery. Adding a small amount of protein after a workout can reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery.

The body needs a quick energy boost to recover and replenish strength after physical activity.

1-2 hours before bedtime

Providing light nutrition before bedtime helps children sleep deeper and restores their energy for the next day. A cup of warm, lightly sweetened milk, especially A2 milk, has a positive effect on sleep.

Warm, lightly sweetened milk is an ideal choice for children before bed. It is easily digestible, soothes the stomach, and creates a comfortable, relaxed feeling. A2 protein in warm milk is more absorbable than other proteins, ensuring the child receives the necessary amino acids without feeling heavy or uncomfortable.

When sleep arrives, the body begins the process of regeneration and recovery, supporting height development, boosting immunity, and improving focus.

This journey often starts with a cup of easily absorbable milk, suitable for a child’s small intestine health. When the small intestine’s absorption capacity is optimized, the nutrients from A2 protein are quickly transported into the circulatory system, providing energy and essential nutrients to vital organs.