What to Feed Your Child to Support Healthy Brain Development

Healthy brain development starts early and continues throughout childhood. A healthy brain influences how well kids learn, pay attention, control impulses , anticipate, plan and make decisions. It also impacts their social-emotional skills , mood and mental health. According to a 2016 Journal of Pediatrics article on the role of nutrition in brain development , the structural and intellectual capacity of the brain is mostly established by age 3. In infancy, the brain’s framework and "information highway" is established. While babies can’t talk or read, they learn from observation, connecting with caretakers and their environment. This process continues in the toddler years, resulting in the emergence of language, social skills and learning through play. In childhood, formal learning, executive skills like planning ahead and decision-making abilities emerge. While brain growth and development still happen in adolescence, a shift occurs. The brain begins to prune itself, removing underutilized neurons and information pathways so more important ones can flourish. Brain development in young children is influenced by many things, but experts focus on three key areas: exposure, experiences and nutrition. Exposure to toxins like lead , as well as infection, stress and trauma can have long-term repercussions on brain development. Likewise, positive or negative experiences can also influence brain development. For example, neglect or abuse can have devastating, lasting effects, while playing with a child or reading stories together are beneficial for brain development. The third key to a healthy brain is nutrition. Nutrients for Healthy Brain Development Many nutrients are needed for normal, healthy brain development, including protein and fat, and micronutrients such as the omega-3 fatty acid DHA , choline, iron and zinc. The goal is to ensure nutritional needs are met. Young brains are more vulnerable to the impact of a nutrient deficiency than older brains. In fact, […]

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