How to support kid's brains

Kids’ brains grow best when they’re supported by a mix of healthy habits. Eating balanced meals ensures adequate intake of key nutrients like essential fatty acids and iodine that help fuel brain development. Regular sleep is essential for memory and focus, while daily physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and supports learning. If you’ve got a fussy eater, it’s important to focus on the diet to ensure they are getting adequate nutrition to support their brain health as they live, grow, learn and play.  

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients as the body cannot produce them, so they must be obtained externally from the diet or through supplements. Fatty acids from fish are considered ‘good fats’ because they contain high levels of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA support brain health as they are an integral part of cell membranes which control what goes in and out of cells.

Benefits of omega-3 fatty acids:

• Support brain health and cognitive function in children
• Assist brain and central nervous system development in children
• Maintain eye health and help maintain healthy eye development in children
• Support nervous system function and skin health in children 

Iodine

Iodine is an essential trace mineral that supports brain and nervous system health. It is mainly found in foods from the sea, such as fish, seafood and seaweed, and can also be added to foods like bread made with iodised salt. Iodine is a key component of thyroid hormones, which play an important role in healthy growth and brain development in children.

Cooking with intention

• If you’re looking for delicious ways to get your kids to consumer more fish, consider getting creative in the kitchen to add fish in a way that isn’t too fishy or boring!
• Fish cakes – mix fish with mashed potatoes (and other veggies) and bake in fun shapes
• Fish tacos – use mild fish (like salmon) and add to tortillas with a variety of colourful toppings
• Pasta bakes – bake a creamy tuna pasta bake 
• Fish fried rice – mix small pieces of fish into rice with veggies and eggs, and wrap with iodine-rich seaweed
• Blend tuna or salmon with yoghurt to make a dip and serve with veggie sticks 
  

If you’re still struggling to find ways to top up your child’s essential fatty acid fix, you may like to consider Herbs of Gold Children’s Fish-i Care, which provides omega-3 fatty acids, including high strength DHA, plus iodine to help prevent omega-3 essential fatty acid deficiency and support brain health in children.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.