Foods to Help Children Focus

There has been a lot of buzz recently about foods that can help kids stay focused. In general, foods that can keep kids focused are foods that can keep kids full. It is hard to concentrate when your stomach is growling. Keeping that in mind, it is not a good idea to fill kids up on unhealthy, fattening foods. Foods that are rich in fiber and protein are usually good for preventing hunger. There is a variety of foods to choose from that keep kids healthy and attentive.

Oatmeal

• Oatmeal is an all-around nutritional all-star. A half-cup serving contains 150 calories, 4 grams of fiber, both soluble and insoluble, and 5 grams of protein. Because of its high fiber content, oatmeal can offer a lasting feeling of fullness. Fiber is a useful for curbing an appetite because it absorbs water and takes up a lot of space in the stomach. Be sure, however, not to choose oats with added sweeteners. Instead, use old-fashioned rolled oats and top them with raisins and cinnamon for even more fiber and a sweet taste.

Bananas

• The average banana contains 422 mg of potassium!

  Like oatmeal, bananas are also rich in fiber. On average, bananas are about 100 calories each and have 3 to 4 grams of fiber. But there is another reason why bananas can help kids focus: they are a great source of potassium. According to Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., C.N.S., "A drop in potassium levels can make you weak and tired, and low potassium is often connected to muscle cramps." Consuming an adequate amount of potassium can help ensure a child has enough energy to stay focused throughout the day.

Eggs

• Eggs can be prepared in hundreds of different and delicious ways.

  Eggs are a complete protein, meaning they contain each of the nine essential amino acids. Complete proteins are essential for growth and development. Furthermore, according to Jonny Bowden, "they're also loaded with vitamins and nutrients that help your eyes, your brain, and your heart." Optimum eye and brain function are critical for a kid's ability to focus. However, to get the vitamins of the egg, the yolk must be consumed. Yes, the yolk contains all of the fat and cholesterol, but it also contains all the vitamins and minerals.

Nuts and Seeds

• Most nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts or pumpkin seeds contain both fiber and protein. Also, many nuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help boost a child's attentiveness. Of course, too much fat, even the unsaturated variety, is unhealthy, so it is important that children eat nuts and seeds in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. An ounce of nuts or seeds make a great daytime snack to keep kids focused, and with so many different types to try, they will never get old.