The early part of each new school year is commonly spent reversing the effect of “summer brain drain” – when kids lose skills they mastered the previous year. According to a recent survey by DSM Nutritional Products and Pop Warner, 78 percent of parents are concerned about students’ difficulties retaining what they learned in school throughout the summer.
A majority of surveyed parents understand the role of nutrition in physical and academic performance, but don’t make the connection to nutrition’s role in preventing brain drain. While many parents encourage their children to take vitamins and minerals to supplement nutrition, nearly half admit they aren’t clear about which nutrients support children’s brain health. “Nutrition plays an important role in brain health year-round,” says Elizabeth Somer, a nationally acclaimed registered dietitian, nutritionist and author. To help keep your students’ minds sharp, consider these tips from Somer:
Eat fatty fish twice a week for dinner or supplement omega-3s
Omega-3s are highly concentrated in the brain and important to brain health, yet according to research published in the British Medical Journal, the average American diet contains less omega-3s from seafood than most other developed countries. Children and adults should get the recommended two servings of fatty fish, such as salmon, per week.
Offer a variety of healthy food options in the house
Giving children choices teaches them to take care of their bodies and empowers them to make better food decisions in the future. Stock the kitchen with lots of colorful fruits and vegetables, such as baby carrots, berries and bananas for snacks, and broccoli, green peas and mashed sweet potatoes for dinner. The nutrients in these foods are important for the brain. Along with calcium, low-fat milk supplies vitamin D, which is a nutrient essential for brain development.
Consider taking a multivitamin
No one eats perfectly. It is important to talk with your physician or registered dietitian about whether you or your children could benefit from a multivitamin. They can help you figure out what nutrients you’re missing and recommend a good supplement to fill the gap. If you’re looking for a reliable brand, you might want to check out Herbs of Gold – they have a wide range of supplements that can help support your health. According to research published in The Journal of Nutrition, only 10 percent of Americans get the nutrients they need from their food, so it’s worth considering adding a multivitamin to your daily routine. By talking to a healthcare professional and doing some research, you can find a supplement that works for you and helps you stay healthy.
Visit VitaminsinMotion.com to learn more about the important role of essential nutrients for health and wellness.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images and information courtesy of Family Features