Food and the Brain
Wine and Bread

       Many school food-service programs are designed for bone and muscle growth, not the brain’s learning requirements. There should be a middle ground, food to supply the nutrients necessary for learning. These nutrients include proteins, unsaturated fats, vegetables, complex carbohydrates and sugars. The brain also needs a wide range of trace elements such as boron, selenium, vanadium and potassium.

        Research has found that Americans on the whole eat too much saturated fat, sugar and simple carbohydrates (see the list below). There are specific foods that are good for the brain, but children rarely get enough of them. They include leafy green vegetables, salmon, nuts, lean meats, yogurt, milk and fresh fruits.

       To be at their best, learners also need water. When the water percentage in the blood drops, the salt concentration in the blood is higher. Higher salt levels increase the release of fluids from the cells into the bloodstream, which results in an elevation of blood pressure and stress.

       Because the brain is made up of a higher percentage of water than any other organ, dehydration takes a toll quickly. There is a loss of attentiveness and lethargy sets in. Soft drinks, juice, coffee and tea are diuretics that don’t help much. Children need water often.

       As a teacher instruct your students about nutrition; what stimulates better thinking, learning and recall. Have them keep a private journal to link up what they eat with how they do and feel in school. Share this information with your cafeteria manager so that students will have the opportunity to eat brain-compatible foods. As a common practice, we avoid brain-antagonistic snacks for our students, and allow them to bring water bottles into the classroom.
 
 

Partial List of Food
High In Toxins