We all need a little boost sometimes. Especially when getting back into a routine with the start of the new school year.
If your child struggles with concentration and focus in school or has been diagnosed with ADHD, it might be worth considering the addition of some brain-boosting supplements.
Brain health starts with a healthy cell wall/membrane.
Healthy cell walls improve the function of many of our bodily systems including the function of our liver, digestive tract, immune system, lungs, skin, and, you guessed it, our brain.
PPC and Omega-3s
Phosphatidylcholine (PPC), the largest of the four basic phospholipids, constitutes ~80% of the membrane surrounding every cell.
PPC has rightfully earned the moniker in our office as “liquid gold”… think of it like an oil change for your cell walls. Phospholipids, like PPC, also help transport long-chain omega-3s into cell membranes, where they can provide flexibility and support cell functions.
Omega-3 fatty acids are critical for healthy cell membranes. They allow cells to take in important nutrients, remove waste, and activate signaling to neighboring cells. Omega-3 fats are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties that help boost cognitive function.
Unfortunately, in the Standard American Diet, otherwise known as SAD (ironic, I know), there are too many omega-6 and -9 fats and too little of the healthy omega-3 fats. Therefore, most people (especially children) are deficient in Omega-3’s if they are not intentionally eating the right foods or taking the right supplements.
That deficiency in children can manifest in a number of ways including dry hair, dry skin, and cognitive issues like ADHD or trouble with attention or concentration. Take a look at this table from my book Healthy Kids, Happy Moms, which lists foods high in omega-3 fats.
How many of these foods is your kid eating on a regular basis? (Chances are not very many since foods like flaxseeds and Brussels sprouts are not marketed as “kid foods.”)
If you and your family are not regularly eating these foods, I recommend adding an omega-3 (fish oil) supplement to help bridge the gap. Both our PPC and HKHM Omega-3 supplements are available in capsule or liquid forms, ensuring accessibility and ease of use for all ages.
PPC: liquid or capsules
Omega-3: liquid or capsules
We also have dosing instructions by age on our website as well… no guess work here!
Magnesium
Another vital component to cognitive function (and overall health) is magnesium.
Similar to Omega-3’s, about 50% of the US population does not get adequate amounts of magnesium on a daily basis.
Giving your body enough of the right kind of magnesium can work wonders for focus, energy, attention, and much more!
Some signs of magnesium deficiency include (but aren’t limited to):
- Fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
- Headaches
- ADHD + challenges focusing
- Anxiety
Medications like stimulants for those with ADHD can also amplify magnesium deficiency, making it even more critical to ensure we’re getting enough of it.
As you can see, magnesium is extremely important and yet so easy to be deficient in. To that end, many of the patients in our practice take our HKHM Advanced Magnesium supplement (also available in powder form).
Adding foods that are high in magnesium is another great way to make sure you and your family are getting the minerals your bodies need to function healthily and happily this school year.
