Building Focus

FOCUS Nutrients to support your child's concentration and attention

- Dr. Rachel Schwartzman ND

It’s hard to believe that back to school is here again when it feels like summer just began! Heading back to school can be a difficult transition for kids. For many, it means sitting at a desk for long periods of time with focus: focus on the teacher, assignments, new facts, and not on what the person next to them may be doing. For some kids this is more of a struggle than for others. A Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study reported that in 2011, 11% of American children aged 4-17 had been diagnosed with ADHD at some point. This was up from 7.8% just eight years earlier. Whatever the cause, this rising prevalence is definitely something that we, as parents, want to start paying attention to.

As a naturopathic doctor, I believe the work you do now to support your child will benefit them for a lifetime. You have the power to make an incredible difference in their mental development! Here are some tips to help support your child’s concentration and focus, hopefully creating the best possible experience at school.

BRAIN BUILDING STRATEGIES

» Boost up Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that calms the nervous system and promotes restful sleep. Children with ADHD or attention struggles are often deficient in magnesium, which can be a contributing factor to their restlessness. Try adding magnesium rich foods to your child’s diet such as dark green veggies, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, bananas, watermelon, figs, potatoes and green beans. You can also consider a magnesium supplement. Taking it before bed can have the added benefit of a more restful sleep!

» Up your Healthy Fats