The Nutrition of Learning
A simple explanation of brain function and nutrition.
Articles within this series
- Overview
- The Nutrition of Learning
- The ABCs of Nutrition
- Ages and Stages
Many different nutrients are needed to keep the brain in good working order. The neurons must be fed in order to carry clear messages, and the supporting structures should be maintained to ensure an uninterrupted trip for the messengers. The whole nervous system needs good quality food to power mental activity. The key nutrients to sustain and promote physical and mental activities are water, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals.
Our body’s messengers, the neurotransmitters, are made from amino acids found in protein foods, such as meat, fish and cheese. Vitamins and minerals in the diet are important ingredients needed to convert amino acids into neurotransmitters. These nutrients together ensure the brain’s efficiency and will give children optimum opportunities to learn.
Another important substance in the brain is fat. Over one-half of the brain is composed of fat. Each neuron is surrounded by fat molecules. The nerve impulse increases speed as it passes over the fat molecular covering. Fat also regulates circulation, inflammation, memory and mood. As parents we must regulate our children’s intake of fat to counter obesity but ensure also that they take in enough fat for brain function.
The brain’s primary source of energy is found in carbohydrates. Grains, fruits and vegetables all contain carbohydrates that can break down through digestion into a sugar called glucose. It is important to maintain our glucose levels. If glucose levels fluctuate, we can experience dizziness and mental confusion. When children experience this confusion at school, it may look instead like apathy or distraction.
All of the above nutrients move through the body in our circulatory system via our blood. Blood is 83 percent water. Water acts as a nutrient transportation system within the blood. Removing waste and delivering nutrients to the brain, water takes away the bad and carries in the good for proper and efficient brain function. A good supply of water is needed for concentration and alertness. Parents must balance their children’s water intake with other fluids that may be high in sugar.