The Biology of Behavior

Johnny is a constant motion machine. Tom cries in frustration over minor matters. Susie hates loud noises. Carol acts “spacey” and forgets the things she knew the day before. Harold is eleven years old and filled with anxiety. Could common physical symptoms such as athlete’s foot, rashes, leg pains, allergies, and stomach aches be related to these children’s behavior and learning issues? The answer is a resounding, YES! Remember when your mom told you that “fish is brain food”? Well, she was right. Current brain research shows that the brain is 60% FAT. Dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADD, hyperactivity, bipolar, depression, and sensory integration problems are associated with essential fatty acid deficiency. Physical symptoms such as dry hair and skin, asthma, allergies, bumps on the back of the arms, or white spots on the fingernails give a clue. When the brain is fed the fats it needs, kids often comment that they can “think better.” Learn the clues your child is giving. It is easy to correct these conditions at home and dramatically affect your child’s learning day.