Brain development food for 6 months baby

Baby brain food: 7 foods to fuel brain development

If you’ve ever spent time with a toddler, you probably know they learn quickly and absorb new information like a sponge. But brain development begins long before a child can walk and talk.

Brain cells multiply at an astonishing rate as a baby develops in the womb. The brain continues to grow during infancy as motor functions such as balance and coordination develop. During the toddler years (ages 1 to 3), the brain increases cognitive ability — how quickly a child can interpret and relay information to perform complex tasks.

During these periods of peak growth, nutrition plays an important role. For toddlers, not getting the right nutrients can have a detrimental impact on cognitive development — affecting memory, attention and academic ability later in life.

Key nutrients for baby brain development

While all nutrients are important for brain growth and functioning, some play a bigger role in early brain development than others. The American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition recommends certain nutrients for healthy brain development in toddlers:

Choline
Folate
Iodine
Iron
Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-3 fatty acids
Protein
Vitamins A, D, B6 and B12
Zinc

Best foods for baby and toddler brain development

No one food or “superfood” can ensure optimal brain development for toddlers. But some foods are packed with a variety of the necessary nutrients. Just be sure to monitor all new foods to ensure there’s no potential allergy.

1. Eggs

Eggs are nutritious and typically a crowd-pleaser for young children. Brain-boosting nutrients in eggs include choline, vitamin B12 and protein. Choline is especially important for normal brain development and can improve cognitive functioning. Two whole eggs a day provide the choline that children age 8 and younger need.

2. Seafood

Oily fish and other seafood provide a lot of bang for the buck when it comes to brain development —protein, zinc, iron, choline, iodine and omega-3 fats. But avoid feeding your toddler seafood that is high in mercury such as tuna and swordfish. Too much mercury can have harmful effects on a child’s developing nervous system. Instead, opt for low-mercury options such as shrimp, salmon, tilapia, crab or cod. Children under age 3 can have a 1-ounce serving two to three times a week.

3. Leafy green vegetables

There’s a reason that parents try to hide extra leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, in their children’s smoothies and pasta sauce: They’re a great source of iron and folate. Research shows that children who get enough folate tend to have better cognition than kids who don’t get enough. Iron plays an important role in the development of the hippocampus — the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory.

4. Lean beef (or meat alternative)

Lean beef qualifies as brain food because it is an excellent source of zinc and iron. Iron is especially vital for young children because they are more likely to experience anemia (low iron levels). Nearly one in 10 American children age 3 and younger has an iron deficiency, which can contribute to learning difficulties and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Black bean or soy burgers work as great iron-containing burger substitutes.

5. Yogurt

Unsweetened yogurt is an easy, kid-friendly way to support brain growth. It contains nutrients such as protein, zinc, choline and iodine. Children need iodine to produce thyroid hormones, which are vital to brain development and neurological processes. Even mild iodine deficiency may affect a child’s overall cognitive function and ability to reason.

6. Nuts & seeds

Food such as nuts, seeds and nut butters make a protein- and zinc-packed snack. Protein contributes to healthy brain growth and the development of long-term memory. Zinc also plays an important role during the toddler years, when the brain is growing rapidly. Insufficient amounts of zinc may affect your child’s cognitive development, impairing their memory and ability to learn.

Whole nuts and seeds can be a choking hazard, so try adding water to small amounts of peanut butter, or giving peanut-flavored “puff” snacks instead. Just make sure to choose puffs made from real peanuts with no artificial flavoring.

7. Beans

Beans offer several beneficial nutrients for a developing brain including zinc, protein, iron, folate and choline. Some types of beans, such as kidney, pinto and soybeans, also contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. For vegetarian children, the iron and protein in beans make them an excellent substitute for meat.

If you are concerned about your toddler’s diet or want more guidance about what your toddler should be eating, reach out to your child’s primary care physician.

6 brain foods for your toddler and how to serve them

Illustrations: Justine Wong

You knew your baby needed wholesome, nutritious food to grow, but did you know that what they eat also helps their brain develop? “The first 1,000 days of life, from conception until age two, are the most important for brain development,” says Molly Schoo, clinical dietitian, NICU, Paediatrics and Obstetrics at Mississauga Hospital. After introducing solid food at six months, it’s important to start thinking about safe, kid-friendly ways to incorporate these valuable nutrients into your kid’s diet.

Protein

Illustrations: Justine Wong

Protein is needed to build the structure of the brain and contributes to its size. Neurotransmitters, which send messages to other parts of the brain and tell the body what to do, are also made of protein. Beans and lentils, meat, cow’s milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, and nuts and seeds are all high in protein.

1. Mini egg cupsCombine egg, grated cheese, shredded zucchini and butternut squash and pour into muffin cups; bake until set.

2. Scrambled eggMake a scramble with egg, feta cheese and chopped red peppers.

3. Egg wrapScramble egg, then wrap in a tortilla with tomato.

Illustrations: Justine Wong

Zinc helps the body process carbohydrates, protein and fat; promotes immunity; and helps with body tissue growth and repair. Find it in beans and lentils, cow’s milk, yogurt, cheese, nuts and seeds, shellfish and seafood.

1. QuesadillasMash black beans with mozzarella cheese, fold into a tortilla, and grill to make quesadillas.

2. ChiliAdd red kidney beans and chopped bell peppers to a mild chili.

3. LentilsServe cooked lentils in a small dish as a finger food.

Illustrations: Justine Wong

More than half the brain is made of fat, says Schoo. It helps build connections between neurons and the nervous system and protects brain cells from future damage. Foods that are rich in healthy fats include avocado, nuts and seeds, and salmon.

1. Creamy puréeBlend avocado with half a banana to make a smooth, creamy purée.

2. Avocado toastMash avocado and spread on toast strips for mini avocado toast.

3. Avocado dipSlice avocado into thick wedges and dip into chia seeds.

Illustrations: Justine Wong

Iron is needed to carry oxygen from the lungs to the body and is vitally important for learning and growth. There are two kinds: heme and non-heme. Heme iron is better absorbed by the body and is mostly found in meat, such as beef, chicken, lamb, pork and turkey, and in fi sh. Non-heme iron is found in grain products, like infant cereal fortified with iron; cashew butter; lentils; soybeans; and green leafy vegetables, such as spinach or kale—which all need to be consumed with vitamin C so that the body can absorb the iron.

1. MeatballsMake meatballs with ground chicken and serve with tomato sauce.

2. Chicken stripsPrepare your favourite chicken breast recipe and cut into strips for your baby or toddler.

3. Mixed riceChop leftover chicken and veggies and mix with cooked brown rice.

Choline

Illustrations: Justine Wong

Choline is super important while the brain is developing in utero and during infancy—it supports learning and memory—so pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should try to consume plenty of this nutrient. Recent research also suggests that it’s important for brain development through toddlerhood as well. Eggs, soybeans, chicken breast, broccoli, quinoa, fish and seafood (such as cod, salmon, shrimp and scallop) are high in choline.

1. Shrimp tacosChop cooked shrimp and serve in a small tortilla with mashed avocado for a simple shrimp taco.

2. Salmon toastMash cooked fresh or canned salmon with a small amount of mayonnaise and slather on infant cracker.

3. Fish sticksMake homemade fish sticks by slathering plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard and garlic on cod pieces, dipping in panko crumbs, and baking.

Illustrations: Justine Wong

DHA plays a role in intelligence, vision, attention and impulse control by being responsible for the creation, movement, organization and connection of the brain’s neurons. Find it in fatty fish and seafood, ground chia and hemp seeds, ground flax seeds, walnuts and walnut butter, and omega-3-enriched eggs.

1. Chia smoothieBlend chia or hemp seeds in your favourite smoothie recipe.

2. Banana sushiSpread almond butter on a tortilla, add a banana, sprinkle with chia seeds, roll and slice into rounds.

3. Hemp flourGrind chia or hemp seeds into a fine powder and add them to an infant cereal.

Get the most out of your nutrients

Although the food and nutrients your infant and toddler eats is important for brain development, the environment in which your kids eat also affects brain health. “You can be serving all the right foods, but if you’re force-feeding or creating a less fun or calm environment, the child won’t get the same developmental benefits as eating the foods in a calmer environment,” says Schoo. Never force-feed your baby or toddler or use food as a punishment or a reward for good behaviour.

This article was originally published on Dec 10, 2020

The best food for the baby's brain | useful tips

Published: 03/17/2017

Reading time: 3 min.

Number of reads: 14256

Author of the article: Ponomareva Yulia Vladimirovna

Pediatrician, Candidate of Medical Sciences, Allergist-Immunologist

Genetics determines a lot in our life, but everyone knows that a child is not born a genius or a fool. Human intelligence depends on hereditary predisposition, but external factors play the most important role in the realization of what is laid down by nature. A child's environment and personal experiences at an early age have a strong influence on intelligence. Many parents try to engage in the development of the baby from the cradle. Is this alone enough? Social and pedagogical efforts are not decisive in the formation of cognitive activity. A child can successfully realize his potential also under the condition of rational nutrition. There is a relationship between the physical and intellectual development of the child and the qualitative composition of the food consumed.

Scientific reference

Thanks to the accumulated scientific data on the influence of nutrition on the ability to think and learn, an independent branch of modern medicine has appeared - neuropsychonutritionology. This is a scientifically based approach that explains the role of nutrients and other biologically active food supplements in the development of intelligence, as well as psychological activity in the form of the ability to memorize, artistic and musical perception. The need for a balanced and complete diet is important at any age, but it is of fundamental importance during critical periods of a person's life - at the stage of intrauterine development, in the first two years of life and in adolescence. Let's look at the role of nutrition in a child's development and what is the optimal food for the brain.

Basic nutrients

First of all, the intake of complete protein has the most important effect on intellectual function. This is a building material for all cells of the body, and in the first years of life, the growth and maturation of the central nervous system continues actively. In addition, such essential amino acids as leucine, valine and tryptophan are necessary for the synthesis of special substances - neurotransmitters that are involved in the transmission of information and the formation of a neural network (interconnections between nerve cells). There is also a relationship between the qualitative composition of the incoming protein and the speed of human thought processes. The source of essential amino acids is mother's milk, and then complementary foods of animal origin - meat, dairy products, fish and eggs.

The role of carbohydrates

The mental process is very energy intensive: the human brain consumes over 20% of our body's total energy. Glucose serves as the main food for working neurons. Every adult knows that sweet tea or chocolate significantly improves intellectual performance. However, sugar and other easily digestible carbohydrates provide only a short-term effect and are not the best choice for brain activity. After the rapid intake and consumption of glucose, a phase of decrease in its concentration begins, and an energy deficit forms in neurons, which adversely affects thought processes. Therefore, it is more expedient to have a smooth and long-term supply of glucose to the brain cells, and this happens during the breakdown of slowly digestible carbohydrates. Cereal products are the most important supplier of glucose and energy to all cells of the body, including brain tissue. Rational nutrition necessarily involves the inclusion of cereal dishes in the daily diet. Porridge is a traditional breakfast among residents of many countries, since the main, including intellectual, activity falls on the first half of the day.

Such different and necessary fats

Development of the brain in childhood is impossible without an adequate intake of fats from food, because this organ has a very high content of lipids. These substances are the main structural components of neuronal membranes. Shells of brain cells carry out the transmission of impulses and the formation of neural connections that determine the process of learning, memory and perception. The structural role of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) omega-3 and omega-6 is especially important. These compounds are found in fatty fish from cold seas, as well as in vegetable oils. The components must enter the child's body in a certain ratio at the stage of intrauterine development, and then at an early age. And although a direct connection with the use of PUFAs and intellectual activity has not been established, they are certainly necessary for the proper development of the nervous system. Despite the importance of a sufficient intake of PUFAs, the role of saturated fats cannot be dismissed. So, in mother's milk, these are the predominant lipids; nature itself ensures their sufficient supply during the period of active growth of brain tissues. In addition to mother's milk, saturated fats come from dairy products, meat, and bird eggs.

The role of micronutrients

In addition to the main nutrients, the intellectual function is influenced by minor food components - their presence in foods is insignificant, but their role can hardly be overestimated. First of all, we are talking about vitamins, vitamin-like substances and minerals. The index of intellectual development in children significantly increases when a sufficient amount of these irreplaceable compounds is received. Most vitamins and minerals are not synthesized in the body, they must be supplied daily with food and water. Unfortunately, modern food cannot be considered as the main source of these essential substances. Therefore, the concept of enriching the diet with the most necessary supplements to ensure the normal functioning of all systems and the prevention of deficient conditions comes to the fore. What are the most important micronutrients for efficient brain function?

B vitamins. Among the large number of known water-soluble vitamins, it is necessary to distinguish this combined group, which includes substances with a similar biological role, and they are often present together in food. B vitamins are very important for the functioning of the nervous system. They regulate the synthesis of many structural elements of the brain and spinal cord, in addition, they provide emotional reactions and are important for mental health. Vitamins B 9 have the greatest influence on the processes of assimilation and processing of information, concentration of attention and memorization. 0043 6 and B ₁₂ . A pronounced deficiency of these substances in children can be the cause of the development of mental retardation. This group of vitamins regulates the synthesis of substances that are involved in the transmission of impulses between nerve cells - neurotransmitters, thus affecting the diverse processes of brain activity.

Nicotinic acid. Vitamin PP in modern medicine is used not only as a biological food supplement, but also as a drug - nicotinic acid. This substance can improve blood flow, including in the brain, as well as regulate multiple biochemical reactions in cells, determining their activity. Its intake in sufficient quantity is extremely important for intellectual activity. With a deficiency of vitamin PP in the body, there is a decrease in cognitive function, loss of previously acquired knowledge and skills.

Iodine. It is part of the thyroid hormones that regulate the formation of brain structures and overall energy metabolism. With insufficient intake of this mineral at the stage of intrauterine development, as well as in early childhood, violations of cognitive and speech functions are typical. Unfortunately, iodine deficiency is one of the most common pathological conditions of a non-infectious nature in children around the world. This is due to insufficient intake of this macronutrient with water and food. Therefore, it is imperative to control its additional intake in the form of fortified foods.

Magnesium and iron. The need for these macronutrients increases during periods of active growth and development. Therefore, the deficiency of these minerals in childhood is also not uncommon. Magnesium helps to normalize the electrical activity of the cells of the central nervous system and increase the body's resistance to stress. For this mineral, a characteristic effect is to reduce the overall level of anxiety and normalize sleep. However, in addition to the general calming effect, magnesium can influence the processes of learning and the formation of neuronal memory. Sufficient intake of this mineral improves concentration and regulates memory processes. The brain is the most active consumer of oxygen in the body, so its normal operation is impossible with iron deficiency. This element in the structure of a special protein of red blood cells binds oxygen in the lungs, and exchanges it for carbon dioxide in the cells, thereby ensuring cellular respiration and high functional activity of the brain.

The role of prebiotics

Enrichment of food with prebiotics (substances that do not have nutritional value for humans, but can improve the vital activity of their own intestinal microorganisms) can lead to an increase in the formation of special substances (short-chain fatty acids) that are absorbed in the intestines and enter into brain. These substances can stimulate the synthesis of a certain protein that plays a key role in learning and memory. In addition, they help increase the formation of substances (serotonin and GABA), which improve perception and emotional background. There was even a special term for prebiotics in connection with the established effects for them in the brain - psychobiotics.

Baby food

Caring parents have a real opportunity to ensure a successful start for the intellectual development of their baby. Modern specialized baby food products of industrial production are designed taking into account scientific research data on the role of various compounds in the health and development of children. Bebi Premium products are not just food that meets basic nutritional needs. This is a functional food, where the recipe of each product is selected taking into account the individual needs of the child at this age. The enriched composition is not a simple set of useful substances, it is a quantitatively and qualitatively balanced combination of biologically active compounds. Bebi Premium milk porridge is a complete protein, complex carbohydrates, vegetable and animal fats, as well as an enriched composition that includes everything a baby needs for successful intellectual development: vitamins B ₆ , B ₁₂ and PP, iodine, magnesium, iron in the required daily dosage. And cereals with the addition of prebiotics are a healthy microflora, which means a great mood and active cognitive activity.

Smart nutrition - Smart child - Aptaclub.ee

Yes, that's right - a balanced and complete diet contributes to both the healthy development of the child's brain and its good functioning, activating concentration skills and memory, which have a beneficial effect on the general mental abilities of the child and his perception!

The child's brain develops most intensively before 3 years of age. The same applies to the immune system. Therefore, in this age period (starting from 6 months, when complementary foods are added to mother's milk), parents should try to ensure that the baby receives the nutrition necessary for its development. Let's try to figure out which nutrients are important at this stage, what their functions are, and how they affect the physical and spiritual health of the baby.

Nutrition and its influence on the development and functioning of the baby's brain

While mommy feeds the baby with her milk, the baby receives all the necessary nutrients and vitamins, as well as substances that strengthen the immune system and contribute to the successful development and functioning of the baby's brain. But when the complementary feeding period begins, it is important to pay attention to whether the child is getting the necessary nutrients from food. It must also be understood that the child's menu is different from the adult's menu. A balanced diet with the right proportions of nutrients and vitamins is of great importance for a child to grow up not only physically strong, with a good immune system, but also have a stable nervous system, good memory and ability to concentrate. This will further affect school success and overall health.

Particularly important iron - it is necessary for blood circulation, which, in turn, contributes to the development of the baby's brain and provides energy. It supplies tissues with oxygen, therefore it is involved in the formation of bone tissue, teeth and in the activity of the immune system. The more the body develops, the more iron it needs. It is best obtained from lean meats. Remember that calcium prevents the absorption of iron, but vitamin C enhances it. Therefore, foods containing iron are best eaten with fresh vegetables and fruits.

If the baby is given mashed vegetables, it is advisable to start with tender vegetables, such as zucchini, pumpkin, carrots, cauliflower, and then supplement the menu with other vegetables - broccoli (which is the richest source of iron), spinach, paprika, eggplant, etc. These vegetables are also powerful antioxidants that can repair damaged cells. Sources of iron also include lean meats and some legumes (beans, peas), which improve brain function. In the menu of a small child (from 8 months old), it is advisable to include, first of all, tender meat - rabbit, turkey, chicken or veal (if the child does not have intolerance or allergies). The meat is best boiled or stewed, and then chopped in a blender.

B vitamins - are involved in the development of the nervous system and the formation of the protective membranes of the nerves. These vitamins are mainly involved in the work of the muscular and nervous systems, especially B12 and folic acid, which promotes cell repair. Therefore, B vitamins are an integral part of the child's growth process. They also contribute to the formation of red blood cells in the body and strengthen the immune system.

Dairy products are rich in proteins and B vitamins, which are important for the development and growth of brain tissue. Recommended foods are yogurt without additives, not too fatty sour cream, cheese, kefir (there is an opinion that cow's milk should not be given to a child under 3 years old, as it can cause an allergic reaction), as well as cereals. Vitamin B6 is found in all types of meat, as well as vegetables and fruits. For example, one banana contains most of the vitamin B6 needed throughout the day. Interestingly, the composition of the egg includes almost all B vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids, as well as the element choline, which improves memory. Less allergenic and more suitable in size for a small child will be quail eggs.

Carbohydrates - an essential part of them is glucose, which supplies the brain with energy resources. Within one minute, 100 g of the brain consumes up to 5 mg of glucose, the main substrate for respiration of brain tissues. It is interesting that, first of all, the energy of glucose is used precisely for the work of the brain, the rest of the functions in this case are secondary. Carbohydrates are an integral part of the blood, muscles, nerves and other tissues of the body. Therefore, an actively growing organism, especially in the first 3 years, they are especially necessary.

Carbohydrates are one of the most important nutrients in the first years of life, when the development of the baby is especially rapid. The richest source of carbohydrates are cereals (except for them, of course, fruits, berries and dairy products), since they provide the body, including the brain, with “fast” energy. Therefore, porridges from cereals are recommended, starting with rice, ending with porridges from other types of cereals. Important! You should find out if the baby has an allergic reaction to nutrients such as gluten (a protein found in grains of wheat, rye, barley and oats).

Fats - they form 60% of brain tissue. Fats are extremely important for the formation of the nervous system. Thanks to them, for example, nerve cells can grow. Fats are divided into saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Among polyunsaturated fatty acids, the most important for nerve tissues are ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which contribute to the full development of nerve cells, retina, heart and brain and boost the immune system.

Considering the need of a rapidly growing body for energy, up to 3 years of age, a very large amount of fat should be included in the diet of a child. This is necessary so that the brain can develop normally, as well as for the good functioning of the hormonal system. The required amount of fatty acids can be obtained from oily sea fish, such as steamed (in a double boiler) salmon, since it contains the omega-3 acids that the body needs, which improve the cognitive function of the brain. It is also good to include white fish, such as cod fillet, in the diet of a small child. If a child refuses fish, it is worth considering the use of fish oil. It is desirable to supplement the diet with vegetable oils, for example, olive and rapeseed. It is worth remembering that the seeds of raspberries, strawberries, blackberries and strawberries are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and strawberries and blueberries can improve memory.

What else should be considered?

In order for the child's brain to receive all the necessary nutrients and develop normally, the child's menu must be appropriate for his age and state of health. Gradually including new products in the menu, care should be taken to ensure that the child does not develop allergic reactions, therefore it is necessary to control the content of salt and sugar in the child's food. Nutrition should be healthy, balanced, varied and, of course, tasty.

Often, allergic reactions in children do not come from any particular vegetable or fruit, but from the chemicals they are treated with. Therefore, it is recommended to choose, if possible, more environmentally friendly products, ideally grown on their own. Therefore, products that may contain preservatives, flavorings and colorings should be avoided.

Not only the food itself is important, but also the way it is cooked (steaming, boiling or frying). As you know, if processed incorrectly, if boiled or fried for too long, important nutrients disappear, and the food becomes of little value. A small child should take a large amount of fluid daily. It can be not only water, but also fresh fruit and vegetable juices, herbal teas, etc.