Kids get anxious and depressed too

Especially empowering is that they can go a long way to prevent the conditions from developing in the first place.

The evidence shows that diets that are low in (and sometimes even devoid of) key nutrients directly affect the moods and behaviours of children. And because children are growing and developing at such a fast pace they are using nutrients up at a great rate. Consequently, shortages can happen very easily, with far-reaching negative effects.

So what should be on the daily plates of children?

Lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, a good source of protein, whole grains and fatty fish.

And what should be severely limited? Processed and refined foods, sugary foods, fast foods and junk foods! Also foods filled with additives: colourants, artificial flavours, preservatives and the like. Of course, this looks like a list of the things that children (and their parents) love to eat! These should really be offered as treats – and treats should be quite infrequent, otherwise they are not longer treats but have become staples!

And, as far as I am concerned, it pays to find suitable nutritional supplement to fill any gaps that are not being satisfied in the daily food intake. Its an easy way to start turning the whole show around, results are usually noticeable quite quickly, and it gives time to alter the daily eating habits of the family towards something that is more wholesome.

There are fundamentally 5 things I would recommend:

1. A good multivitamin, multi-mineral supplement, preferably including the essential oils from whole grains. As far as I know there is only one that ticks all these boxes!
2. A good source of all the important phytonutrients that one should be getting from brightly coloured fruits and vegetables. These are potent anti-oxidants which protect growing bodies from the free radicals that are constantly being formed as oxygen is used for fuel. They are also very important for supporting a healthy immune system. And we all know just how important that is.
3. Good fats. Especially those that come from fatty fish, namely Omega 3 oils. Not only are they structural components of the brain, but they are also potent anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory molecules. If they are in short supply, the developing brains of our kids will be compromised.
4. A good probiotic! The health of the gut microbiome is critical for many reasons, but especially for the health of the brain and mood. Strange, I know, but true.
5. A good source of protein. We are essentially built from protein, so a growing child needs a lot of high quality protein on an ongoing basis.

As you well know, there are many products on the market to choose from. Some are great, and many are frankly not worth the money spent on them.

If you’d like to know what I have used for over 30 years now, and still strongly recommend, please take a look here:

https://neolifeafrica.com/positiveoptions/shop/childrenshealth

If you want to discuss anything further with me please message me or leave your name and number on whatsapp and I will get back to you. My number is +27 (0)84 506 3643

Disclaimer:

The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions and experiences of the author. They are for information purposes and do not replace a consultation with your doctor.