5 Brain Foods for Children — Boost Memory, Focus and Brain Development

Dr. Sandip Gupta

Do you know that 80% of a child's brain growth happens in the first 2 years and 90% by 5 years? That is why it is very important to give children food that helps in their brain development and growth from early on. The doctor notes that he sees parents paying high fees for good schools and focusing on studies, but they are often not aware of which foods help develop the child's brain, memory power and concentration. This video covers five super foods that are very good for children's brains, along with the doctor's own clinical and personal experience. 1. Egg – egg contains choline, which helps a lot in increasing children's memory power, and vitamin B12, which increases the speed of nerve conduction in children. The yellow portion can be given from 7–8 months, well boiled, in a small quantity; a month after that, between 9 and 12 months, you can start the white as well. Egg also gives good nutrition along with protein, which helps in weight gain too. 2. Walnut (akhrot) – for vegetarian families that do not eat egg, this food provides a similar magical power for the child's brain. The doctor notes that nature gave it a shape that reminds us all it is a food for the brain. Walnut contains omega-3 fatty acids, which increase children's memory and their focus and concentration. For small children of 7–8 months, walnut can be given in powder form; up to 5 years, walnut should always be given in powder or paste form. Once the child is above 5 years, walnut can be given directly to eat. Any nut given to a child under 5 must be in powder or paste form, otherwise there is a choking risk. 3 and 4. Chia seeds and flaxseed – the doctor shares a case: a girl studying in class 5 was brought in; her parents said she studies for long periods but cannot remember what she has studied. He advised soaking one spoon of chia seeds in water and mixing it into the child's curd, and adding flaxseed powder into her smoothie or into the atta kneaded for making roti. Within a period of time the parents saw a big improvement in the child's studies, memory and concentration, and she started getting good marks. Chia seeds and flaxseed are one of the richest vegetarian sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Precautions with seeds: Chia seeds must always be soaked in water for at least one hour before giving to the child — half a spoon of chia seeds dissolved in water can be mixed into the child's curd or put into the child's porridge. Flaxseed must be roasted and powdered before giving. 5. Spinach (palak) – spinach contains iron and lutein. Lutein increases our eyesight, and the iron in spinach increases the alertness of our brain. Relevant for: parents wanting to support their child's brain development, memory and concentration; parents whose child studies a lot but cannot retain what they learn; parents of vegetarian families looking for an egg alternative for brain health; parents asking at what age egg yolk and egg white can be started; parents asking how to give walnuts and other nuts safely to children under 5; parents asking how to prepare chia seeds and flaxseed for a child; and parents looking for omega-3 and iron rich foods for kids. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every child is different — please consult your pediatrician before introducing eggs, nuts, seeds or any new food to your child, especially if your child is very young or has a history of allergy, and always supervise to prevent choking.