How nutrition affects your child’s mental health
Nutrition plays a key role in promoting overall mental health, particularly for developing children. Studies show that nutrition affects the brain development and mental well-being of children more than adults. Children who eat more nutritional diets, with more fruits and vegetables, have better mental health and wellbeing, which can directly impact anxiety levels, sleep patterns and more. The food we eat affects how we feel in our bodies and minds.
Important tips about the food we eat
- Nourishing foods give our children’s bodies the energy they need throughout the day to do the things that matter: learn, play, grow, and connect.
- A healthy diet supports gut health, which plays a role in brain function and emotional regulation.
- Good eating habits also support overall physical health. When we feel good physically, we are more apt to feel good mentally.
- Eating dinner together as a family at least three nights a week is a powerful protective factor for preventing mental illness in children. It is a special time to connect emotionally and express interest in each other’s lives. Slowing down to eat together shows children that you value them and that you are present for them. Make family dinners a priority as much as possible.
We suggest an eating plan that provides a variety and abundance of nutrients for the whole family. Try these nutritional changes:
- Increase vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy protein sources such as beans, lean meats, and low-fat dairy.
- Decrease fried foods, fast foods, and sugary treats and drinks.
A healthy mind and a healthy body go hand in hand. Learn eight ways to nurture your children’s mental health through nutrition. In addition to healthy eating, sleep, exercise, and limits on screen time are also powerful ways to support children’s emotional health. Try to balance all these protective factors as much as you can.
