In such a scenario, the next best thing to do would be to boost memory by artificial means by supplementing diet with vital micronutrients.
Studies done by the International Nutrition Enhancement for Mental Optimisation Group, of which Unilever Food and Health Research is a member, have shown that fortification with multiple micronutrients results in significant improvement in verbal learning and memory. However, no effects were found on tests measuring general intelligence or attention. This was not only in undernourished children but also well-nourished ones.
A total of 396 children (aged 6-10 years) in Australia and 384 children in Indonesia were randomly treated to a drink with a micronutrient mix (iron, zinc, folate, and vitamins A, B-6, B-12, and C), etc.
In other studies, Unilever has shown small amounts of vitamin C can compensate for effects of calcium on iron absorption. A short-term study in Indian children showed that a mid-morning snack reduced decline in memory.
The result of all these studies was a new product from the Unilever stables, the Amaze Brainfood. According to the company, the nutrients in the mix play a role in the structure and functioning of the brain, as well as improvements in mental behaviour when used for long periods.
The composition is based on dietary recommendations of the WHO/Fao for children ideally between ages 7 and 9 years.
Micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent among children from middle and high socio economic status in India. This is linked to high prevalence of anaemia, obesity among other things.
About 50 per cent of what a child's brain learns in a lifetime happens by the age of 12 years. A child's brain consumes twice as much energy as an adult brain! Given this, the Amaze food is claimed by UFHR to be just what the doctor ordered!
While iron, iodine, zinc and b-vitamins help communication between brain cells; fatty acids like omega-3 are the building blocks of the brain and help increase the grey matter!
Amaze Food comes in bars, bites, smart mix and is available in TN and Karnataka.
