Dubai, UAE – Every child has the right to a mentally healthy and sound life. Being mentally healthy during childhood is directly attributed to their ability to reach developmental and emotional milestones and pick up healthy social and problem-solving skills. For healthy mental development, children must have a positive environment in which they can grow and thrive.

When a child is growing up, their cognitive, social and emotional behavioral development is just as important as meeting their physical milestones. Scientists have discovered that while the brain's cognitive, social and emotional parts develop across the lifespan, most of the growth and development, including its ultimate structure and capacity is shaped early in life, before the age of 3 years. It is interesting to note that among the factors that influence early brain development and memory skills, optimal nutrition is one of the most important ones.

“These days, most parents are aware of the importance of nutrition and its effect on their child’s growth and development,” says Ms. Yasmine Haddad, one of the best nutritionists in Dubai, with a specialization in pediatric nutrition. “Healthy children who receive adequate nutrition are found to be productive and have a better memory power”.

Many nutrients are essential for brain development in children. Of these, protein, carbohydrates, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, folates, choline, zinc, copper, iron, Vitamins A, B, C, and D, and iodine and selenium are linked particularly with brain development. To ensure that your child is receiving these nutrients, pediatric nutritionists recommend including foods such as eggs, oily fish, leafy greens, oats, greek yogurt, carrots, beans, and lentils in their diet.

“Foods that are low in glycemic indexes, such as eggs, oily fish, and oats are great for balancing blood sugar levels and supporting brain function,” continues Ms. Yasmine. “So for school-going children, including these foods with low GI in their breakfast is a great way to help them stay alert and improve memory and concentration for learning.”

Offering a variety of foods to older babies who are starting solid foods and continuing with the trend throughout their childhood is one way to break picky eating habits and ensure proper nutrition. If you are looking for more guidance on pediatric nutrition, talk to nutrition doctor Ms. Yasmine Haddad, currently practicing at myPediaclinic, one of the leading and trusted pediatric clinics in Dubai.

About myPediaclinic:
myPediaclinic is a multi-specialist pediatric clinic in Dubai offering a wide range of healthcare services for young patients. The specialties include pediatrics, orthodontists, pediatric dentistry, and nutrition. As one of the most trusted and kid-friendly clinics in the country, the doctors and staff at myPediaclinic are focused on delivering quality treatment and consultation for the long-term health and well-being of their patients.