As adults, roughly 70 per cent of our brain power is inherited from our parents. But intelligence isn't just down to our genes. What happens to us from the moment we're conceived can also make a difference.  During the first year of life, our brains grow at incredible speed, increasing from one-quarter to three-quarters of adult size. There are several crucial ingredients during this period, perhaps the most important being food and, in particular, fat. The brain is 60 per cent fatty chemicals. To sustain brain growth, babies's diets need to contain 50 per cent fat. In Britain, children generally get plenty to eat, but can being a faddy eater affect intelligence? Our appetites are largely determined by our genes. If you don't enjoy strong or bitter food, you're probably a 'supertaster' - you may be a picky eater and you're likely to be thin. IQ results over the past 100 years show that, as a nation, we're getting cleverer. This is partly because of our diet, but it's also due to increased stimulation. Scientists have shown babies do best when given lots of adult attention and that stimulation can make up for poor birth weight and poor diet. Find out what happened in the third series.
Disclaimer: The BBC Parenting site is provided for your general information only. The information contained on this site should not be treated as a substitute for medical, legal or other professional advice. The BBC is not responsible or liable for the contents of any websites of third parties which are listed on this site. |
