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Brain Nutrients
An Excerpt from Brain Food for Kids
By Nicola Graimes
The other essential fatty acid is omega-6, found in plant sources such as nuts and seeds, as well as corn, safflower and sunflower oils. Phospholipids, other fatty-acid substances found particularly in eggs, fish and soybeans, are needed for brain cell membrane repair and the transmission of electrical nerve impulses.
Bad fats include saturated as well as hydrogenated or trans fats, which have a negative effect on the brain. Once the hydrogenated fat gets into the cell walls, it interferes with the assimilation of nutrients, resulting in toxic buildup. Unfortunately, it is very easy for children to eat too many "bad" fats, especially if their diets are made up mainly of highly processed or fast foods. Hydrogenated fat is found in a wide range of manufactured foods, from margarine, sausages and salad dressings to pies, cookies and cakes. Fortunately, some major food producers are attempting to reduce (or even eliminate) the hydrogenated fat content of their products.
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