How a healthy diet can help your child’s mental health during a pandemic

October 10, 2020 11:30:30 am

Turmeric milk can increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in children, so increasing BDNF levels may improve brain function. (File)

Dr. Cima Kanna

Today’s busy schedule has tired children due to lack of concentration, attending online classes, taking online exams, not going to the outdoors. Most children eat homemade meals, so eating out is avoided. As a result, mothers need to be very careful when offering a variety of nutritious meals.

Foods and drinks that enhance and support brain function and concentration are a combination of large amounts of antioxidants, probiotics, proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12. Our traditional herbs have been found to be very helpful in boosting energy, cognitive health and immunity. Whole-grain foods are rich in B vitamins 12 {cobalamin}, protein, and fiber and should be consumed in large quantities. Vitamin B12 plays an important role in the production of red blood cells and the proper functioning of the nervous system. Eggs and salmon fish are excellent sources of protein, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12. It acts as a protective measure for the body, preventing children from covid and other deadly illnesses. At least one or two eggs (whole) or 60 grams of fish should be given to the child daily. Commonly available antioxidants include cinnamon and mint, which can be added to curds (probiotics).

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A new class of natural and synthetic compounds known as NOOTROPICs or smart drugs that are known to improve brain function are emerging. There are several beverages containing natural nootropic compounds, which have phytochemicals (potentially toxic chemicals produced by plants that have beneficial effects on animals when consumed in modest amounts). I have. Phytochemicals can increase resistance to neuroplasticity and neurodegeneration. Some commonly used beverages include:

coffee: Its brain benefits come from caffeine. People with sourness problems should drink milk-free coffee, or black coffee.

Green Tea: It has an intelligent compound l-Theanine combined with caffeine may improve attention and concentration. In addition to this, there are few Indian herbs that boost immunity and concentration while preparing green tea (because they are rich in antioxidants). You need to add Tulsi, Mint, Ashwagandha (Ginseng), Cinnamon, Cloves and Ginger. A review of 21 human studies found that green tea as a whole may support concentration, attention, and memory.

Kelp tea: A gelatinous mass of symbiotic bacteria and yeast. A fermented beverage made from green tea and sugar, it is fermented with the help of “Scoby”. SCOBY is an acronym for Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria & Yeast. This is a sweet and sour carbonated drink. Its main advantage is the introduction of useful bacteria called “probiotics” into the intestine, and intestinal health is brain functioning through intestinal brain access (two-way communication between the intestine and the brain). May increase.

Common and tasty drinks include orange juice, blueberry juice and green smoothies (which can be made delicious by adding mint, lemon juice and lemongrass). Greens include celery, red amaranth, green apples and spinach.

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Golden milk: Milk with turmeric (curcumin) and toppings such as cinnamon, tulsi, and bluffmi is rich in protein, calcium, vitamin A, and antioxidants. This may increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in children, so increasing BDNF levels may improve brain function.

Almonds (soaked and peeled) and pumpkin seeds (including micronutrients such as zinc, magnesium, copper and iron) should be added to the daily dietary schedule.

Most importantly, these all help maintain weight.All of the above foods are very helpful, boost immunity and metabolism, and play an important role in keeping children healthy and safe during these difficult times. Pandemic..

(The writer is a nutritionist consultant.)

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