Children who take zinc supplements may pay attention longer and perform better during memory tests.
by
ADDitude Editors
Zinc seems to boost the brainpower of children. U.S. Department of Agriculture researchers gave seventh-graders 20 mg of zinc five days a week for 10 to 12 weeks. The students responded more quickly and more accurately during memory tests and paid attention longer than they did before starting zinc supplements. Classmates who took no zinc supplements did not improve.
Research has already shown that zinc can improve brain function in adults and very young children. Red meats, fish, milk, and eggs are good sources of zinc, but many American children don't get enough of this essential mineral.