If your child has suddenly become very irritable, is constantly restless, and you’re receiving complaints from school that they can’t sit still, you can help and manage this issue through nutrition.
Vitamin Deficiencies in Children.
If your child has a deficiency of Vitamin D, they won’t sleep well at night and will be restless. A deficiency of Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) or Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine or Pyridoxal Phosphate) can also cause restlessness, making them move from one place to another frequently.
Similarly, children with ADHD and autism are treated through nutrition by addressing their vitamin deficiencies.
Zinc's Role in Child Development. If your child has a zinc deficiency, their. IQ may be lower, as zinc plays a crucial role in the development of neurons in the frontal cortex. Such children may struggle with learning and appear less intelligent, less active, or somewhat slow.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms in Children.
A Vitamin B12 deficiency can make a child feel sad or gloomy. This is because Vitamin B12 helps produce two essential neurotransmitters—dopamine and serotonin. Dopamine is a "reward hormone" that helps us respond positively to good experiences, while serotonin controls mood, sleep cycles, body temperature, and hunger. A lack of Vitamin B12 can cause mood swings, sluggish reflexes, and a general feeling of tiredness in children. It also affects the production of the myelin sheath, which insulates nerves. Without it, nerve signals slow down, affecting brain function.
Iron Deficiency in Kids.
If your child has dark circles under their eyes, eats dirt, or craves chalk, they may have iron deficiency. This can happen independently or due to a deficiency of Vitamin B6, B9, and B12.
Best Foods for Children's Brain Development.
So, where can you find these essential nutrients?
• Iron and Vitamin B12 are found in meat. Mothers are encouraged to eat meat regularly so they remain healthy after 40 and give birth to intelligent, active children. Many households avoid meat, which is an unhealthy trend leading to weak children and sick mothers.
• Vitamin B9 (Folate) is found in green leafy vegetables but is most abundant in meat.
• To improve Vitamin B9 and B12 absorption, add one tablespoon of organic desi ghee to milk for your child.
• To support growth and a healthy weight, grind nuts and seeds and mix them into milk for daily consumption.
• Zinc is found in red meat, shellfish, ground nuts, and seeds.
• Vitamin B6 is found in eggs. Feed your children eggs daily.
• If they tolerate dairy, include dairy products in their diet.
• Whole grains are also essential. Avoid white flour.
By making these dietary changes, you will see behavioral improvements in your child within 3 to 6 months.