I would love to share this interesting research I came across recently about the quality of food given to babies in the first 2 years of their life.

It is believed that foods impact neurological development and that the quality of food can impact their IQ level in later years. This research was done in Adelaide so its great to see our Australian researchers out there making a difference to the ways we can enhance the health of our babies.

The researchers had 3 groups: 6, 15, and 24 month old infants. One set of infants were given home made foods consisting of meats and cooked vegetables and the other set of infants were given ready-prepared foods. The aim was to see if there is any correlation with the type of food given to these three groups and comparing their IQ level at 8 years of age.

Findings: What they found was that when babies of 6 months old are given home made foods their IQ levels were positively higher when tested at 8 years of age. In comparison there was no significant improvement noted in the 15 and 24 month old groups. On the flip side the 6 month and 15 month old groups that where given “ready- prepared” foods had a negative association seen in their IQ levels when tested at 8 years of age. Interestingly, the 24 month old group given the “ready-prepared” foods had a positive association with their IQ levels at 8 years of age.

So what can we take from this? Its important that the nutrition of babies in the early stages of introducing foods into their diet be quality home made foods. We all understand the strains parents are under in raising children and managing work at the same time however, some preparation can go a long way.

Even having a small vegetable garden with only some key vegetables that are easy to grow and are enjoyed by the entire family can go a long way. These meals should be considered provided at every meal with the inclusion of some protein in the form of meat. I know some people won't like this however these foods will provide widely nutritious meals that will encourage maximum development not only neurological but throughout the entire body.

Another interesting fact, the group given chocolates, biscuits, fizzy drinks, chips and the like had a reduced IQ level.

It really supports you are what you eat!!!  

Note: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Salubre provide IVF acupuncture in Melbourne.