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ntelligence quotient, or IQ, is one measure of a child’s intelligence. While there are different forms of intelligence, including emotional and physical, and different ways of measuring it, an IQ score is one important measure for educational placement that can infuence a child’s path from kindergarten and beyond.

The basic structure of your child’s brain is set by his or her genetics; however, what you feed them, in combination with their environment and what they learn, can help develop and make the most of that structure as they grow.

In a study conducted at the University of Queensland in Australia, researchers concluded that children who are fed insuffcient amounts of key nutrients may have defcient brain growth and development, resulting in lower IQs, reduced language development and slower fne-motor development. A survey conducted by the non-proft educational charity Food for the Brain concluded that the best foods for good academic grades are dark leafy vegetables, oily fsh and water. The worst foods are processed foods and ready-made meals.

Feed your mind

So, if processed foods are bad, then what should your kids be eating to ensure their brains are receiving optimum levels of nutrients?

• Colourful vegetables such as spinach and kale are loaded with phytonutrients – organic components of plants that are thought to promote human health – along with vitamins and minerals that are ideal for peak brain performance. If your kids aren’t into spinach or kale salads yet, try blending leafy greens into smoothies along with berries, peaches and bananas. Turn to page 121 for a recipe.

Smart foods

Can what your child eats affect his IQ? Nutrition counsellor Monica Proctor thinks so.

• Berries are sweet sources of antioxidants. Kick-start a power breakfast by topping porridge or yogurt with them. • Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain development and can be found in faxseed oil, walnuts, mackerel, herring, sardines, and wild or organic salmon. If you’re concerned about heavy metals in fsh, consider serving just two portions per week or having your kids take a high quality fsh oil supplement instead.

• Free-range eggs are a perfect source of protein and also contain choline – an amino acid that aids memory and growing brain cells. Consider including eggs in buckwheat pancakes, salad and • High-fbre wholegrai energy. Oatmeal, br can be topped with pumpkin and hemp of honey, or coconu cinnamon, dependi child prefers. Be sure refned carbohydrat foods and sugary dr • Iron is key for concen and staying energise can be found in red m kebabs, bean conge and green smoothies orange juice or vitam with a source of iron w body absorb it bette

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