Nutrition plays an essential role in building and boosting brain power in children and giving them the energy they need to take on the world. Make sure they get enough of every food group, including often-neglected healthy fats that are an important component of a nutritious diet, especially omega-3 fatty acids.
These long chain fatty acids are one of the most important nutrients for brain development, and have been shown to improve cognitive performance and problem-solving skills in children. A convenient and easy way to include this essential nutrient in your child’s diet is with high-quality omega-3 supplements.
Avoiding certain foods is also important. Sugary foods might cause a temporary jolt of energy but they can also result in a quick drop in blood sugar levels, leaving your child feeling sluggish. Try opting for fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds during snack time instead. Healthy whole foods with fibre help to control blood sugar and will keep your child feeling full and energized longer.
Green leafy vegetables are high in folate, which is especially important for brain development and health, but they can sometimes be a hard sell with kids.
An easy way to help your picky ones get more greens is by incorporating them into a kid-friendly milkshake. Amp up the nutrient factor by using fortified ingredients, like Orange Naturals’ nutrient-dense shake mixes that are tailored to support a child’s developing needs.
Try this delicious Super Strawberry Milkshake recipe to boost your child’s veggie intake on-the-go. It tastes so great, they won’t even know they’re getting their greens and vitamins!
Super Strawberry Milkshake
Ingredients:
• 5 frozen strawberries
• 1/2 banana, sliced
• 1 tsp. (5 mL) vanilla
• Orange Naturals ND Shake Kids powder, vanilla flavour (choose amount according to your child’s age)
• 1 cup (250 mL) rice milk or organic milk
Directions:
Put all ingredients into a high-powered blender, then pulse until smooth. Add more milk to adjust consistency to your child’s preference. Serve immediately.
Find more healthy on-the-go recipe ideas at orangenaturals.com.
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