BrainFit is a sugar-free supplement that aims to support cognitive function and development in children.

Whether it’s lovingly brewed soups, herbal concoctions or a hearty breakfast, parents in Singapore show their love by giving their children the best and most nutritious foods possible.

However, modern diets may not provide all the nutrients that children need for optimal development, especially if they are fussy eaters.

BrainFit, a sugar-free supplement, contains a carefully curated mix of ingredients aimed at optimising brain development during those crucial formative years.

The star ingredient of BrainFit is phosphatidyl-serine (PS), a nutritional phospholipid that is important for children’s cognitive development. A naturally occurring nutrient, PS is found in human breast milk and in certain foods, like soybeans, egg yolks and liver.

“Phospholipids are the main lipid building blocks of cellular membranes,” explained Dr Itay Shafat, product manager, IFF Health. “PS supports healthy nerve cell membranes for neurotransmitter and nerve signal transmission in the brain, maintaining healthy cognitive and mental functions.”

FOR HEALTHY, AGILE BRAINS

With a more globalised and industrialised diet heavy on processed food prepared outside the home, it’s estimated that children’s daily intake of PS has decreased within 30 years from 250mg in the 1980s to 130mg – a 48 per cent reduction.

However, the childhood years are especially important for brain growth and development. According to Dr Shafat, by the age of five years, the brain of a child will weigh 90 per cent of its adult weight. Between the ages of 12 and 15 years old, the brain reaches its maximum size.

“The brain doesn’t only grow in size and weight, but also develops in terms of functionality,” explained Dr Shafat. “Nutrition is known to play a major role in the development of the nervous system, and to have an even more profound effect during times of rapid brain growth. Therefore, it is vital to ensure our children receive all the essential nutrients for optimal cognitive development during these stages.”

In multiple studies conducted over the years, PS has been linked to increases in concentration, memory and learning. Other studies have found that PS may be able to reduce attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms in children.

A SUPPLEMENT CHILDREN MAY LOVE

In addition to having PS as a key ingredient, BrainFit also contains krill oil, a rich source of DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids. DHA and EPA have long been associated with brain and mental health benefits, complementing PS in supporting cognitive function and development.

Krill oil delivers DHA and EPA in the form of phospholipids, offering better absorption and bioavailability compared to fish oil, which is triglycerides-based, said Dr Shafat. As phospholipids are digested in the small intestines, krill oil does not lead to fishy burps or leave a fishy aftertaste. It also contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage.

If your children – like most of their peers – prefer candy to healthy supplements, they’ll enjoy BrainFit’s citrus-flavoured gummy bears. While most gummy bears can contain up to 80 per cent sugar, BrainFit’s gummies contain a safe low-calorie nutritive sweetener derived from plants.

“This is not absorbed and metabolised as sugar, and therefore contains around 50 per cent fewer calories,” said Ms Doreen Tan, a food technologist at NCI Health. “Children aged two to four years can take two gummies a day. Four gummies a day is recommended for those aged four to 18 years old.” 

GIVING YOUR CHILD THE BEST

Renowned child psychologist Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development states that children begin to exponentially develop their logic and critical thinking skills between the ages of two and seven, eventually progressing on to the formal operational stage between the ages of 12 and 15. “It is during this important window period that parents can help their kids reach their full potential,” shared Dr Shafat.

Parents want the best for their children, be it giving them opportunities to learn or optimal nutrition. With BrainFit gummy bears, parents can give their precious ones the best of both worlds – a sweet treat and a possible boost in building healthy, happy brains.

Learn more about BrainFit, or visit Shopee to purchase BrainFit.