Calcium is not only bone building, it’s brain building as outlined in Dr. Robert Melillo’s book “The Disconnected Kids The Nutrition Plan.” This series, “Nutrition for the Brain,” will explore the nutrients that are most important to brain development and childhood health.
CALCIUM: BRAIN CELL DEVELOPMENT
Calcium is commonly known as an important mineral for building strong and healthy bones, but its impact on brain health may often get overlooked. Involved in every phase of brain cell development, calcium helps to optimize emerging networks to perform their specific functions.
CALCIUM & AUTISM
Calcium deficiency is common in children with autism. At least one study suggests that calcium deficiency during pregnancy increases the risk of autism and other developmental conditions. The study, reported in the journal Progress in Brain Research, acknowledges the central role of calcium to all three stages of the development of specific synaptic connections in the brain and that evidence is accumulating to show that errors in this calcium-dependent network maturation process are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders.
KID FRIENDLY FOODS THAT CONTAIN CALCIUM
The best sources of calcium are milk and other dairy products which can very well be a problem for a child with brain imbalance or Functional Disconnection Syndrome (FDS). And while supplementation for these children may be necessary, there are non-dairy sources of calcium, such as:
- Almonds
- Salmon
- Kale
- Figs
- Sesame Seeds
More information on calcium can be found on page 107 of my book “The Disconnected Kids Nutrition Plan.”
CALCIUM INFOGRAPHIC
ABOUT THE BOOK
Dr. Robert Melillo’s Brain Balance program has helped thousands of families across the country, offering a drug-free, scientifically based method for addressing a wide range of conditions, including autism spectrum disorders and ADHD. In this new book, he presents the nutritional side of The Brain Balance Program, featuring guidelines, tips, and kid-friendly recipes based on the latest scientific research on how food affects the brain.
Disclaimer: The information presented on this web site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment of specific medical conditions. Discuss this information with your healthcare provider to determine what is right for you and your family.
