How to Have a Smarter Baby

From the second they find out they are expecting, most parents begin contemplating their child's future: Will he be smart enough? How can we improve her IQ? What do we have to do to ensure he will be a Harvard graduate? Unfortunately, there is no way to ensure anything in an unborn child. However, there may be a few steps parents can take to boost their child's potential, both in the womb and out.

Breastfeeding: It's been said over and over: breast is best, when possible. Now, there is a link between breastfeeding and intelligence. According to a Danish study, which was reported in the May 8, 2002 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association, researchers reviewed standard intelligence tests given to more than three thousand adults, born between 1959 and 1961. Those that had been nursed for less than a month had a lower average IQ (99.4) than children nursed for at least two months (101.7). Children nursed for four to six months and seven to nine months had average IQs of 102.3 and 106, respectively. An American study confirmed these findings and also noted that fully breastfed infants (those that receive only occasional feedings with formula or other liquids besides breast milk) have fewer respiratory tract infections, fewer ear infections, and are at lower risk for catching pneumonia. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least six months.