A Brain Boost

Developing a Child's Mind Through Food

By Donna Smith

We know that nutritious food is good for the body and soul, but can certain foods boost brain development? Can foods actually help kids learn?

"This is obviously pretty controversial but there is plenty of research to show that diet can influence IQ," says Nicola Graimes, author of Brain Foods for Kids (Delta, 2005) and mother of two. "Numerous studies confirm that eating fish oils, for example, can raise IQ levels and benefit children with learning difficulties, dyslexia and behavioral problems, including ADHD. A well-balanced and varied diet can also help improve concentration, irritability, mood swings, memory, energy levels and tiredness."

Peggy O'Shea, a Boston-based registered dietician and president of the Massachusetts Dietetic Association board of directors, believes there are no specific foods that will boost "brain development," but does agree with Graimes about the mental health benefits. "Studies are beginning to show more and more the link between what kids eat and how they behave, think and learn," she says. "Some foods ... can affect mood and feelings."

Carbohydrates, for example, are "fuel" for the brain. "A steady stream is its ideal source of energy," O'Shea says. "Some carbohydrates actually tend to excite the brain and others calm it." While this does not necessarily boost brain development, it can affect a child's behavior and mood, which, in turn, can affect learning.

Graimes gives a special mention to iron because of a positive link between IQ scores and adequate iron intake. "Lack of iron is associated with delays in development, poor concentration, irritability, mood swings, fatigue and depression," she says. "However, iron deficiency is particularly common in children, particularly among toddlers and teenage girls. Iron from animal sources (red meat, liver, shellfish) is better absorbed than that from plant sources (molasses, apricots, green vegetables, fortified breakfast cereals, eggs), but eating a food rich in vitamin C with an iron-rich meal will help encourage absorption."

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