Foods that could boost your child's attention span at school
Diet can significantly influence your child's academic performance at school. Therefore, it's important they're eating the right foods.
The British Dietetic Association (BDA) emphasises that children require a range of nutrients to support their brain function and learning capacity. A proper intake of nutrients can only be achieved by eating a balanced diet full of various healthy foods.
However, certain nutrients are particularly crucial for maintaining a child's focus in school. Let's look at some of the main ones.
The importance of vitamin D and omega-3
Both vitamin D and omega-3 have been identified as having a substantial impact on a child's mood and their ability to concentrate in an educational environment. A controlled clinical trial involving 50 children with ADHD discovered that those with higher vitamin D levels exhibited significantly improved attention compared to those with lower levels.
The same study concluded that vitamin D could enhance cognitive function in children with ADHD. Similarly, a study examining the role of omega-3 in a child's attention found that it could boost cognitive performance in children and adolescents, while a deficiency could lead to reduced attention levels.
Full list of foods that could impr
If you're worried about your child's attention span, consider incorporating more foods rich in vitamin D or omega-3 into their diet.
Common sources of these nutrients can include readily available fatty fish, as well as certain vegetables, seeds, and nuts.
While red meat can provide valuable nutrition, it's generally advised to consume it in moderation due to its high levels of saturated fat and salt. Some foods you could introduce into your child's diet include:
Salmon
Tuna
Mackerel
Sardines
Eggs
Mushrooms
Fortified cereals and milk
Flaxseed
Chia seeds
Soybeans
Walnuts
Canola Oil
Spinach
Brussels sprouts
The NHS also suggests that children should aim for at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables each day to ensure they're receiving an adequate amount of minerals, vitamins, and fibre.
If you have concerns about your child's attention span or diet, it's recommended to consult with your GP before making any significant dietary changes.
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