Growing children need a nutrient- rich diet. While different aspects of nutrition take care of various tissues in the body, there are food groups which are found to be helpful improving the overall brain function. Studies suggest many food ingredients have a direct influence on mental skills, memory power etc. of your child. Given below is a list of a few food items that can improve your child’s brain power:

1) Milk: Milk products are wholesome foods. Milk, yogurt, cheese, butter etc. are packed with protein and B-vitamins. B group vitamins are the essential aspects for brain and nerves. Dairy products also contain neurotransmitters and enzymes that are crucial for the storage and functioning of memory.

2) Beans: Beans are a rich reserve of proteins. Dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals are other major components of beans. Beans also contain omega 3 fatty acids. They are considered a wholesome and excellent way of nourishing the brain.

3) Vegetables: All sorts of vegetables, especially the deep-coloured ones and green leaves, contribute with vitamins and minerals which enable the brain stay healthy and powerful.

4) Fish: Fish contains the brain tonic omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty acids DHA and EPA are supposed to be key to the growth of brain.

5) Eggs: Eggs are rich in protein, the essential component of brain development. Egg yolk is of the very few sources of choline, a part of acetyl choline – a substance crucial for memory functions.

6) Peanuts: A good reserve of thiamine, a B group vitamin important for the smooth functioning of the nervous system, peanuts are also rich in vitamin E. Vitamin E has a protective role for nerves. It is also a powerful anti-oxidant.

7) Whole grains: Unpolished grains contain certain vitamins belonging to the B group that provide excellent nourishment to the brain and nerves. And more importantly, carb-rich food grains supply enormous amount of glucose – the brain’s mainstay.

8) Berries: All sort of berries – cherries, gooseberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries – are rich sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is found playing an important role in the memory function. Berries also contain omega 3 fatty acids.