How to Improve Brain Function in Kids

Natural ways to improve brain function in kids are numerous, and basically pretty simple when you think about the things that make our brain perform at optimum levels. Dr. Scott Theirl, a local doctor in Milwaukee, my hometown happens to think in more natural terms when it comes to helping kids have better brain function. In fact in an article he wrote in a local Milwaukee alternative publication referred to as "Natural Awakenings" he elaborates on this topic. Here's a few suggestions he made.

Sleep Long Enough

First on the list for better brain function in kids is enough sleep. In the article written by Dr. Theirl he mentions a publication in the journal "Pediatrics" wherein it is suggested that kids get between 9 and 12 hours of sleep every night. He goes on to say that at particular stages in a child's development they may require as much as 14 sleeping hours.

I've noticed this phenomena happening throughout the development of my own kids throughout their growing years.

Exercise For Brain Stimulation

Ask any person that exercises on a regular basis why they do it, and they'll probably list a small litany of reasons for it. Included in the litany will be the fact that the cobwebs in their brain go away. That's the same for kids as well. When they exercise, their fog clears too. Not only that, Dr. Theirl spends some time in this article focusing on the fact that the nervous system and brain are wired to maintain and manage body movement along with coordination, and that movement is an integral contributor to joint and muscle receptor function, helping to also create a stronger skeletal and muscular system.

Beware of Food Sensitivities

Dr. Theirl explains that published studies in the journals Lancet and Pediatrics have shown a link between poor brain function from gluten sensitivities along with a dairy milk protein called casein that also causes sensitivities. These sensitivities cause symptoms that include lack of concentration, poor memory, and learning disabilities. If your child is sensitive to these substances and you're finding that their concentration isn't what it could be, try eliminating what their sensitive to and watch for improvement.

Stay Hydrated

Significant decreases in brain function as a result of dehydration can cause significant cognitive problems. As little as 1 to 2 percent body mass loss due to lack of adequate hydration can lead to difficulty with brain performance in young adults. Keep a water bottle handy for your kids at all times. Especially in school where brain power is essential.

Source: Natural Awakenings magazine- August 2011 issue