Children who have trouble staying focused often struggle with school, social settings and household rules. If your child is having trouble staying focused, there are things you can do to help. Nutritionists have linked certain foods to help with concentration due to the nutrients and vitamins they provide to the brain. Do not use nutritional therapy to replace medication without speaking to your doctor first. Below is a list of certain foods that are considered to be helpful with concentration and focus with kids.
Spinach
Children who were diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, were found to have lowered magnesium levels. These lowered levels of magnesium can cause confusion, decreased attention spans and inability to focus. Your child can get 38 percent of the daily recommended amount of magnesium with just 1 cup of spinach.
Whole grains
Products made with white flour offer simple carbohydrates that convert to glucose quickly. This quick conversion gives your child a spike of energy that falls off just as quickly, leaving the child lethargic and with no ability to focus. Replacing white flour products with whole grain offers a slower conversion of glucose, which offers a steady pace of energy and better ability to focus.
Oranges
Vitamin C is most commonly known for its abilities to help ward off colds, but it also offers stress reducing properties. With over 116 percent the daily recommended amount of vitamin C in one medium orange, your child can reduce stress that may be causing the lack of concentration.
Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to better brain function. By adding fish that contain these fatty omega's it can help with concentration and focus with children, as well as adults.
If you believe your child may have ADHD, speak to your doctor before relying solely on nutritional therapy. Introducing healthier foods into your child's diet can help with concentration, mood and help maintain a healthy weight.