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Brain Food recipes kids will love

fishcakeSome kids will eat anything but a great many are picky eaters. Though many of the things that kids like (such as candy and ice cream) are not particularly nutritious, it can be possible to put together dishes which appeal to them, and yet have positive effects on their brain function. Over the years, some researchers have found that some foods and supplements can stimulate chemical reactions or add natural chemicals into your body that have a positive effect on the functioning of the brain. These include:

Fish – high in omega 3 fatty acids, which are great brain boosters. It has also been found that fish will help create a healthy emotional environment and a more balanced and positive mood.

Chicken and beef – these are high in protein, which contain tyrosine, an amino acid. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and cells and may also help the neurotransmitter within your brain to send and receive signal and information. They can also assist one in handling stress and help the body maintain a balanced blood sugar level.

Avocados, raisins, apples and nuts – these contain boron, which has the potential to increase your memory and attention

eggs and milk  - these contain Choline which has also been proven to improve brain function.

Fruits and vegetables – the high degree of anti-oxidants  in these protect your cells and brain from free radicals which cause your cells to be damaged and age faster.Blueberry and blackberry are especially good for your brain since they contain anthocyanin – the most powerful form of anti-oxidant.

Water - Probably the number one ingredient for proper brain function is water. Since your brain is 80% water, we have to keep our brains hydrated, to be able to think clearly and logically.

Try these two recipes that your kids will like, which will give them a brain boost as well Laughing


Yummy Fish Cakes
The beans and mushrooms add fibre and texture to these fishcakes.

· 500g white fish fillets (such as dory ), coarsely chopped
· A few springs fresh coriander leaves
· 3 tbsp cornflour
· 2 tbs mayonnaise
· 1 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
· 1 egg, lightly whisked
· 2 sprigs spring onion, finely chopped
· half a cup of green beans, finely chopped
· half a cup of vegetable oil
· Lime wedges, to serve
Method
1. Place the fish in the bowl of a food processor and process until smooth. Add the coriander, cornflour, mayonnaise, sweet chilli sauce and egg, and process until well combined. Stir in the other vegetables and mix well.
2. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Place 4 egg rings in the pan. Divide the fish mixture into 8 equal portions. Press 1 portion into each egg ring. Cook for 4 minutes each side or until golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towel. Repeat with the remaining fish mixture, reheating the pan between batches.
3. Divide the fish cakes and salad among serving plates.

Raisin, fruit and nut Snack MixNutMix
Instead of snacking on a candy bar during homework time, keep a bowl of this handy – it may also help them remember their facts better Tongue out
Combine these ingredients together:
- Dry roasted peanuts, almonds and cashews
- Crispy wheat cereal (the type that comes in small chunks)
- Raisins
- Dried fruit such as apple rings
Mix all these together and serve. If your child must have some chocolate or candy, throw in a couple of tablespoons of chocolate coated sunflower seeds for colour and to entice them to try this healthy mix.

 

Comments (2)Add Comment
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written by Eleanor, October 02, 2009
Interesting idea!
For the snack mix, some kids are allergy to peanuts, could be substituted with walnuts, wolfberries and figs instead.smilies/grin.gif
Sarin
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written by Sarin, October 02, 2009
Good suggestion, Eleanor. Nowadays it is easy to get a variety of dried fruit such as apples, pears and even local fruit as jackfruit, they make great add-ons or substitutes for nuts.

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