Dehydration Undermines Normal Brain Function in Kids

Children in particular often do not drink enough fluids, particularly when they are in school. However, good hydration is as important for concentration, clarity of thought and energy as a good balanced diet. It has been estimated that a 2% loss in body fluids can cause a 20% reduction in both physical and mental performance. If you do not drink enough fluids you may experience headaches, lethargy, poor concentration, and constipation. Children, and adults, should drink a lot of filtered or bottled water and diluted fruit juice or milk daily. Carbonated sugary drinks should be avoided.
(Source: "Brain Foods for Kids" by Nicola Graimes)
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Packaged and Prepared Foods Can Devastate Mental Health

You should try to avoid foods with high amounts of sugar, saturated and hydrogenated (trans) fats, colorings, additives, flavorings, preservatives and artificial sweeteners, many of which have been linked to behavioral problems, hyperactivity and food allergies in children. Fish fingers, chikcen nuggets and beef burgers which are very popular with children are highly processed and are likely to contain substantial amounts of fat, salt, colorings, and additives. You should try to choose fish without batter or breadcrumbs which are generally loaded with colorings, preservatives, fat and cheap fillers. And try to buy pizza which is made with all natural ingredients. (Source: "Brain Foods for Kids" by Nicola Graimes)

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Heavy Metal Intoxication Undermines Brain Health

Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and aluminum can accumulate in the brain and have been found to be linked to reduced intelligence, concentration, memory, and impulse control. Mercury fillings have also been found to be linked to brain toxicity. Foods which are rich in zinc and selenium have been shown to detoxify heavy metals in the body.
(Source: "Brain Foods for Kids" by Nicola Graimes)

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Nuts and Seeds Are Good for Brain Health

A handful of nuts and seeds can increase levels of B vitamins, iron, magnesium, calcium, zinc, and omega-6 essential fatty acids. which are all important nutrients for brain function and energy production. Nicola Graimes writes in "Brain Foods for Kids" that children who are lacking in the B vitamins may feel tired, lethargic and have trouble maintaining concentration. In Chinese medicine, walnuts are known as the "longevity fruit" and are an excellent brain food since they contain both omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. Pumpkin seeds also contain both types of EFAs. Almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts are a good source of B vitamins. Unsalted fresh nuts are of course best. (Source: "Brain Foods for Kids" by Nicola Graimes)

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Bisphenol A (BPA) Can Damage Nerve Cells and Cause Behavior Problems

BPA has been widely used to make plastics such as clear, tough, light polycarbonate water bottles and baby bottles. BPA is also used in plastic storage containers, plastic utensils, and some dental sealants. The epoxy resins which line the inside of food and beverage cans also contain BPA. BPA can damage nerve cells and cause behavior problems. (Source: "Brain Foods for Kids" by Nicola Graimes)

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Vitamin E and Mental Health

Research shows vitamin E deficiency is associated with brain and nervous system problems, including balance, weakness, damage to the retina and peripheral neuropathy. These symptoms appear more quickly in infants and children than in adults. Kathi J. Kemper reports in her text Mental Health, Naturally that more research is needed to explore the role of supplemental vitamin E to support positive moods, sense of calm, emotional health, concentration, and focus. It nevertheless makes sense to avoid deficiencies that could compromise optimal brain function, while research continues into the value of megadoses of vitamin E for mental health. Good dietary sources of vitamin E are vegetable oils, nuts, sunflower seeds, whole grains, wheat germ, and leafy green vegetables.

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