A child’s brain grows at warp speed during the first three years of their life. According to OnHealth, integrating peanuts into a child’s diet boosts development, which can help with performance in school, sports and music.
Peanuts provide protein, vitamins, minerals, fibre, and contain primarily unsaturated fat. Since the brain requires these nutrients to function properly, peanuts are a natural way to nourish the brain and nervous system. The protein found in peanuts is also essential for the function of the brain’s neurotransmitters, which help children feel alert and energetic throughout the day.
Peanuts also contain vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects brain cells from inflammation. Niacin, a B vitamin, protects the brain from degeneration, while folate is recommended during pregnancy to ensure that an infant’s brain fully develops.
A kid-friendly way to include the power of peanuts in their diet is by adding servings of peanut butter to breakfasts, lunches and dinners using the many recipes available at peanutbureau.ca/recipes.