Children who eat foods containing soy are more focused at school, according to a study.
American researchers found that school-aged youngsters who consumed more isoflavones from soy foods exhibited better thinking abilities and attention.
They explained that isoflavones are naturally occurring compounds found in numerous plants, particularly soybeans and soy products.
Soy can be found in products including tofu, edamame, soy milk, miso and soy sauce.
Although previous research in adults has suggested that soy isoflavones can improve memory, the benefits haven’t been deeply studied in children.
Ajla Bristina, of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, said: “Soy foods are often not a regular part of children’s diets.
“Our study adds evidence of the importance of nutrients found in soy foods for childhood cognition.”