What kind of food is best for children's brain development? These three types of fish are most helpful for improving children's memory! They are hairtail, yellow croaker, and salmon. You may not be familiar with the nutritional value of these three fish, so today, let me introduce them to you. Let's take a look together.
Freshwater fish has less fat content and higher refined protein content, making it easier to digest and absorb. However, freshwater fish usually have smaller and finer bones, making it difficult to remove them completely. They can easily get stuck in children's throats, so it is generally recommended for children over 1 year old.
Nutritionists recommend hairtail, yellow croaker, and salmon for children. Sea bass, eel, and other fish are also good choices.
Hairtail: Hairtail has higher levels of DHA and EPA, which are omega-3 fatty acids, compared to freshwater fish. It also contains abundant lecithin, making it even more beneficial for brain development. Moreover, hairtail has a delicious taste and fewer bones, reducing the risk of fish bones getting stuck in the throat.
Yellow croaker: Yellow croaker is a fish that is particularly suitable for children to eat in the summer. It is rich in nutrients, including protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, iodine, and more. The texture of the fish meat is soft, making it easier for children to digest and absorb. Additionally, the meat of yellow croaker is shaped like garlic cloves and does not have small bones, making it suitable for children to chew.
Salmon: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for the development of fetuses and children. It also contains abundant vitamins A, B, D, E, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus. The meat of salmon is tender, with a smooth texture and vibrant color, making it very suitable for children to eat.
Although fish is good for children, cooking methods should be considered. Experts recommend steaming, boiling, and stewing fish, and avoid frying, grilling, and pan-frying. Another option is to make fish balls, which are safe, light in flavor, and delicious. Any kind of fish can be used. Here is a specific recipe: finely chop the fish meat, add egg white, salt, and monosodium glutamate to make a paste. Boil water in a pot, shape the fish paste into balls, cook them one by one until cooked through, and then add a little salt and chopped green onion.
When cooking fish for children, you can add vegetables as side dishes to enhance the taste and balance the nutrition. When stewing fish, you can consider pairing it with winter melon, mushrooms, radish, tofu, and so on. However, be mindful not to make it too salty, and avoid adding spicy and stimulating seasonings. It is also recommended to use less chicken essence and monosodium glutamate.