Children can quickly become cranky and act out if they are not receiving necessary nutrients throughout the day. Poor diets can lead to temper tantrums, sleeping problems, and difficulty focusing.
Processed foods such as cookies, fast food, and sugary treats rarely contain enough fuel to keep your child going through school and extracurricular activities. Take a look at these five great foods that can help calm your child down and reduce bad behavior.
1. Green beans
These tender vegetables can be seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs, and thus offer a healthy alternative to chips, candy, and cookies. Green beans are high in dietary fiber, Vitamin A, folates, iron, and potassium. These nutrients help regulate a child’s metabolism, so your little ones don’t get hungry too quickly.
2. Cauliflower
Raw cauliflower can be dipped in low-fat dressings for a tasty snack between meals. This vegetable is packed with Vitamin C, which can boost children’s immune systems. Like green beans, cauliflower also contains metabolism-boosting nutrients such as Vitamin B5, potassium, and manganese.
3. Milk
This drink is a staple of many school lunches, because it provides children with necessary Vitamin D, calcium, and protein. Do you have a son or daughter who struggles to get to sleep at night? Give your kid a warm glass of milk. The tryptophan in milk will make him or her feel drowsy and help regulate mood.
4. Pumpkin seeds
Children who crave a crunchy snack can bring along pumpkin seeds, which are easy to travel with. The glutamate in these nutrient-filled seeds will help reduce feelings of anxiety and annoyance by replenishing neurochemicals in the brain. Like milk, pumpkin seeds also contain tryptophan, which regulates mood and encourages drowsiness.
5. Yogurt
This breakfast staple can help protect your child’s bones, improve digestion, boost mood, and regulate appetite. The combination of Vitamin D and calcium can prevent osteoporosis, while the bacteria present in yogurt can contribute to a healthy digestive tract. Yogurt snacks often contain fruit bits, which can raise blood sugar levels and discourage fatigue during the day.
Parents should replace sugary snacks with healthy candy and slow-burning treats. This can improve youngsters’ focus and energy levels during the day. Many foods that contribute to better moods also include essential vitamins and nutrients that are important for children’s development.
Introduce your child to healthy eating options that help them maintain a positive mood and energy level during school and play.
Originally posted on July 22, 2013 @ 2:38 am
