7 Everyday Indian Foods That Can Boost Your Child’s Memory Naturally

To help build a good memory for kids, especially when the exams are just around the corner, there is a need to provide them with good, year-round nutrition. There are many Indian foods that naturally promote

brain development, concentration, and learning capabilities, as well as long-term cognitive benefits. A few of these, which naturally and sustainably improve your child's memory, include:

Ghee

Ghee or clarified butter is among the healthiest foods that help in the overall development of growing children. Pure desi ghee is packed with essential omega fatty acids that help nourish brain cells and support cognitive functioning. Ghee is also a powerhouse of healthy fats, vitamins, and other nutrients, along with omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids that nourish brain cells – while fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K support overall brain function. Adding just a teaspoon of ghee to your kids' daily meals, like dals, roti, or even rice, provides them with the necessary growth nutrients.

Bajra or millets

Bajra is a winter superfood that improves a child's memory by supporting brain development through essential nutrients like B vitamins, which aid neurotransmitter function, and magnesium and phosphorus, which are vital for cognitive processes and energy production in the brain. Millets are slow in releasing energy and thereby help maintain stable blood sugar and focus, while antioxidants protect brain cells from damage.

Turmeric or haldi

Turmeric, or haldi, is a superfood that supports memory, brain function, and reduces oxidative stress. Turmeric is a widely used spice in Indian cooking, rich in curcumin, which has been shown to boost learning abilities in growing children. Adding just a pinch of turmeric to your veggies or soups, dal, or even non-vegetarian dishes helps build your child’s cognitive health and immunity over time.

Walnuts

Walnuts are among the best nuts that improve your child’s brain health as they are packed with omega-3 fatty acids like ALA, vital for strengthening your brain and its function. Also rich in antioxidants like vitamins E and B, folate, and other minerals, walnuts support overall cognitive performance, memory enhancement, and nerve health. Walnuts, also known as akhrot, contain flavonoids and protein peptides that work together to boost memory and concentration – especially during exam time.

Dahi

Also known as curd, dahi is an essential part of every meal in India. Loaded with calcium, vitamin B12, protein, and other nutrients predominantly required for the development of the brain, dahi helps enhance your memory and concentration. According to experts, dahi is rich in probiotics, which strengthen and support your gut health - linked to better mood and mental clarity, and healthy fats that aid nerve function.

Methi and Paalak (fenugreek and spinach)

Come winter, the markets are loaded with fresh green vegetables that are loaded with all the essential minerals and nutrients that help strengthen the cognitive health of growing kids. Spinach is rich in iron, folate, and antioxidants that provide oxygen to your brain, enhance cognitive function, and protect brain cells. Similarly, fenugreek leaves are packed with iron, which is not only essential for the formation of red blood cells but also improves alertness, concentration, and the hippocampus, crucial for learning and memory.

Almonds

Almonds are power-packed nuts that are rich in vitamin E, healthy fats, and antioxidants – all of which are crucial for the brain development of children. Almonds improve your child's memory and concentration as they have a sizeable amount of riboflavin and L-carnitine – important for the enhancement of brain function and support nerve health. These nutrients help improve memory retention and protect brain cells from oxidative stress. It is best to soak the almonds overnight, as it makes them easier to digest and increases their bioavailability.