Dr. Uma Naidoo knows a thing or two about stress, as a Harvard-trained psychiatrist at Mass General Brigham and author of “Calm Your Mind with Food.” Naidoo studies how food affects the brain.The keyword is “C.A.L.M.S.” — an acronym Naidoo uses for brain-friendly back-to-school meals.The C is for choline, a nutrient that is important for memory and focus.”You can get from eggs and different types of legumes, but also edamame. Another C is vitamin C, things like clementine, for lunch. It’s much healthier than something out of a can,” says Naidoo.It’s also for chocolate!”The dark chocolate, extra-dark chocolate, contains plant-based iron. And guess what? Vitamin C from mandarin, a clementine, an orange, activates that and makes it better. And guess what happens with low iron? You feel more anxious,” says Naidoo.The A is for antioxidants. Naidoo says blueberries, bell peppers and tomatoes are packed with them and protect the brain and improve cognitive function.”Tomatoes have lycopene and blueberries have anthocyanins. So, it’s about eat the colors,” says Naidoo.And you don’t want to forget the liquids.”If they’re dehydrated, they could feel more anxious. I would love for kids to learn to use a sustainable water bottle that they can carry on the go rather than soda, juices,” says Naidoo.The M is for omegas and magnesium. Naidoo says you should try to include them at some point in the day.And finally, spices — even something as simple as a little sprinkle of parsley.”Whatever you’re making, add those in to add flavor with very few calories, and have kids learn to love that from an early age.”Naidoo says it’s not about taking kids’ favorite snacks away completely. It’s just making small choices.To learn more about Naidoo’s studies, click here.

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