There is much evidence linking learning and behaviour problems in
childhood to refined oils in the maternal diet during pregnancy and
lactation, particularly linoleic acid in both cis and trans forms which
may impair fetal brain development. A lower IQ in these children would
not be surprising.
I have seen no evidence, however, linking fresh natural fats to any
of these problems. Diets high in refined sugars tend to be high in
refined oils as well -- the two go together -- so I think it's important
to stress that "high fat" in this case refers only to processed oils, not
the healthy fats naturally present in fresh whole foods.
I would be pleased to provide references re linoleic acid and effects
on offspring to anyone wishing to contact me at the address above.
Thomas Anderson, Ph.D.
Conflict of Interest:
None declared
There is much evidence linking learning and behaviour problems in childhood to refined oils in the maternal diet during pregnancy and lactation, particularly linoleic acid in both cis and trans forms which may impair fetal brain development. A lower IQ in these children would not be surprising.
I have seen no evidence, however, linking fresh natural fats to any of these problems. Diets high in refined sugars tend to be high in refined oils as well -- the two go together -- so I think it's important to stress that "high fat" in this case refers only to processed oils, not the healthy fats naturally present in fresh whole foods.
I would be pleased to provide references re linoleic acid and effects on offspring to anyone wishing to contact me at the address above.
Thomas Anderson, Ph.D.
Conflict of Interest:
None declared