(NC) — Through his research into obesity, brain nutrition and child behaviour, Dr. Michael Lyon, MD, author of many books, including Is your child's brain starving?, has revealed key nutritional factors that can determine whether a child is tired and slow, or bright and quick.

Dr. Lyon explains, "The brain is the body's hungriest organ. But a child's body also demands lots of fuel to grow and stay active. MORE food won't necessarily give them the energy they need. If it has poor nutritional value it can just make them fat. Poor food choices, nutrient deficiencies, and food sensitivities or allergies, can make a child appear and feel stupid. Their brains and bodies just aren't getting the type of fuel they need."

A well-balanced, whole food diet, with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables is the foundation for a healthy child (or adult!). Also, increased intake of healthy protein and omega-3 essential fatty acids, supports metabolism, brain health, learning capacity, attention and mood. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids, especially those from coldwater fish, help improve learning, alertness and mood. If fish isn't popular with your kids, you can sneak these healthy fats into their diets with supplements like Omega-3 Kids, in small capsules designed just for kids, or a liquid omega-3 supplement naturally flavoured to taste like lemon meringue pie.

Children need good "fuel" to learn and grow. The right diet supports learning and that can help build a child's self esteem.