Children and especially infants, are extra vulnerable to the effects of junk food because of their immature brains and detoxification systems. Foods that contain sugar and additives such as artificial flavourings, colourings, and preservatives have a negative effect on the production of serotonin and dopamine (hormones essential to wellbeing), leading to bad behaviours such as hyperactivity, aggression, and potential issues with poor sleep habits. On the flip side, certain foods can be used to boost serotonin and dopamine. The precursor to serotonin is the amino acid tryptophan and the precursor to dopamine is tyrosine. Serotonin helps keep you happy and calm while dopamine helps keep you alert and gives you drive. It’s important to have both functioning, and a balanced plate of healthy food or smoothie can help supply the precursor amino acids vital to the production of these “feel good” hormones. Smoothie-friendly sources of tryptophan: dairy, eggs, tahini, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, almonds, fennel, celery, apricot, lettuce, carrot, bananas, spinach, kale, oats, dates, and peanuts Smoothie-friendly sources of tyrosine: spinach, dairy, almonds, peanuts, eggs, pumpkin seeds, avocados, and bananas. As you can see, these two amino acids exist in similar foods. Serve these regularly in smoothies alongside omega-3s in the diet, to optimize mood and mental health in your kids from a young age. Recipe – Monkey Magic – From the “Baby and Toddlers” Chapter 1 banana, frozen and sliced or fresh ¾ cup red papaya or mango ¾ cup any milk or coconut water 1 tablespoon hemp or sunflower seeds small handful of spinach (optional) 1 egg (optional) Please note - this volume (approx. 2 cups / 500ml) is designed for sharing. #motherandbabysmoothies #toddlers #toddlerbehaviour #introducingsolids #babysmoothies #toddlersmoothies #babyandtoddlers
